Rural livelihoods and e-commerce : a case study of artisans in Guerrero, Mexico

Abstract

E-commerce is repeatedly recommended as a means of poverty reduction for rural artisans. However, presenting e-commerce as easily attainable ignores the many barriers and trivializes the value that less complex ICTs offer. By looking at microenterprises in the silver jewellery industry in Guerrero, Mexico, this research examines how incorporating ICTs within business strategies affects livelihood outcomes. Specifically, I examine e-commerce as an alternative to traditional means of selling wares for rural artisans and as a tool to improve market access. In applying the livelihoods framework to look at the relationship between microenterprises, ICTs and e-commerce, it was found that despite available infrastructure; e-commerce is not a realistic option in supporting the livelihoods of artisans. The barriers required to overcome issues related to market access, human capital deficiencies and insufficient government support structures remain too great for most to overcome.