Multi-Scalar Access Analysis: Understanding How Benefits Are Shared in a Rattan Global Value Chain

This case offers insight into access analysis within a global natural resource value chain. Specifically, the focus is on rattan originating in Indonesia, transformed into furniture and exported to the United Kingdom. This reflective and instructive case demonstrates the challenges and opportunities in researching multi-scalar access in a global value chain. Several lessons learned are shared and practical suggestions given for the kinds of tools that can be used when conducting access analysis at multiple scales. Ultimately, this case shows that access analysis is a rich empirical method for understanding access and exclusion with a value chain and that an appreciation of complexity is required to conduct a thorough analysis. Access analysis can be insightful for investigating the differential distribution of benefits and exclusion at several phases of production in a value chain and at multiple scales ranging from the village to the globe.