The study aimed at evaluating economic approaches and theoretical bases for value chains analysis in Vietnam
and other countries. Specifically, this research firstly discusses views and concepts on value chains evaluation,
then analyzes lotus value chains as a case study including concepts, map, the economics of chain, and
stakeholders involved. The research indicates that there are four main approaches in value chain analysis
including Porter, GTZ ValueLinks, Global value chain, and commodity chain approaches. This paper also
provides arguments that providing several economic analysis approaches to analyze the chain including
balanced scorecard, Supply Chain Operation Reference (SCOR), activity-based costing, economic value-added,
and multi-criteria analysis. Finally, in order to achieve more insights and sustainable development of the lotus
value chain as a case study in Vietnam Mekong River Delta, the Structure – Conduct – Performance (SCP)
model and willingness-to-pay approaches may also be employed to search for ways to expand market share for
this commodity in developing countries. In this case study, the analysis of the lotus value chain consists of four
basic contents: mapping the lotus value chain, evaluating the results of the lotus value chain implementation,
managing the lotus value chain, and upgrading the lotus value chain. Moreover, the content of evaluating the
results of the implementation of the lotus value chain needs to evaluate several aspects such as results and
efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness, and product quality.