Overcoming the Challenges of Cooperation. The Case of Joint Upgrading in Guadalajara's Apparel Industry
By Nichola J. Lowe (03/03, MSM-120, En) See also Microenterprise
Studies of small firm 'clusters' in Latin American often start with the basic assumption that intra-cluster cooperation is a logical response to increased market openness and global economic integration. At the same time, there is growing evidence that these same pressures can actually undermine efforts by firms to deepen and intensify their local relationships. This paper examines local efforts to facilitate interactive learning and knowledge sharing among small- and medium-sized apparel manufacturers in Guadalajara, Mexico. It shows how local governments can facilitate and sustain inter-firm cooperation that contributes to the resiliency of SMEs in the context of an ever more global economy.
Last updated: 05/08/07
