In today’s global food systems, the prices of food refl ect not only the cost of the initial product but also the process of moving products from producers to consumers. The intent of this paper is to identify what functions command the greatest value, and consequently, what ro les local producers should facilitate to become more competitive in the global food systems. It is useful for local producers to understand the market for these products and the steps that national food products go throug h. A few questions they need to consider are: How is value transferred and generated along the supply chain? Where are the market opportunities and challenges for local producers?