In an open competitive environment, businesses in various Quebec bio-food sectors are increasingly collaborating to develop value chains that enable them to adapt more quickly to changes in demand, share strategic information, carry out innovation activities, optimise processes, reduce costs and share risk. Value chains can help structure certain sectors and offer their members the ability to differentiate their products from those of their competitors.

Based on a literature review, interviews and consultations with experts, the authors analyze the factors influencing the creation, development, and performance of Quebec's agri-food value chains. Their analyses reveal that the concept of added value is unevenly understood, highlighting a need for training to standardize this notion. The study identifies five key factors for developing value chains: coordination and collaboration, market orientation, innovation, efficiency, and public policies. Public policies play a key role in supporting organization and flexibility, innovation, consumer satisfaction, and competitiveness.