IIndustrial clusters and the governance of the global value chain: the Romania-Veneto network in footwear and clothing

Abstract

The aim of our paper is to analyze the governance of value chains operating in the traditional sectors of clothing and footwear, focusing particularly on production de-localization from the Italian region of Veneto to the nearby country of Romania. After describing and quantifying the internationalization process between Veneto and Romania, we discuss how networks in the two countries evolved through time. This article draws on several case studies, posits three models of value chain governance, and discusses the implications of these models for territories with very different level of development and different industrial structures, and considers their implications for regional development and sustainability