Transnational capitalism and local transformation in Chile.

Abstract This paper explores how transnational corporations can ‘transform’ place and livelihoods within a country that has decided to insert itself forcefully within the evolving world economy. The aim is to explore some of the linkages and flows across space that characterise contemporary global capitalism. More specifically, the paper examines the relationship between transnational corporations and fruit production in Chile through examining the formation of global networks and the regulatory system within Chile. The more precise networks created between fruit transnationals and contract farming are examined before the analysis focuses on how the relationship between local development and transnational capitalism has evolved through time in the Guatulame Valley. Two distinct phases are outlined: an early growth phase and one of consolidation and land concentration. The paper ends by pointing to some key themes of transnational capitalism and local development theory in non-core economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]