Agro-industry and value chain development need to be at the heart of every NAIP, which can act as the pull and push factor for agricultural transformation, as envisaged by the Malabo Declaration. However, in order to make a difference, countries must take deliberate steps in their NAIPs to advance agricultural industries and value chains. These steps include investing in technology and innovation, competitiveness, regional integration and promoting inclusive integrated chains. AU Member States are advised to select five commodities or services and to specialise in those, so as to ensure competitive advantages and to maximise returns. Adopting a gender-sensitive value chain approach is critical in order to realise the full potential of agricultural value chains.