CHARACTERISTICS AND SOCIO-PRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS OF WOMEN MEZCAL PRODUCERS IN OAXACA, MEXICO

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the characteristics and socio-productive problems of women mezcal producers of Oaxaca, Mexico. Design/methodology/approach: A semi-structured interview was applied in the field to n=20 women mezcal producers to obtain the data for this study. Results: The interviewees are middle-aged adult women with an elementary education level and a wide experience in the production of mezcal. Among them, 35% make all decisions in their business and at home. The main problems that they perceive in this activity are the price of mezcal (35%) and the shortage of agave (30%). Women face social limitations such as work overload at home, a lack of financial aids for production, and little involvement in rural organizations. Study limitations/implications: More studies about women mezcal producers in Oaxaca should be conducted. Findings/conclusions: Collective work and organization could be alternatives for women mezcal producers to improve their and their families’ benefits and quality of life. Public policies with a gender perspective should be designed to meet the needs of women who participate in mezcal production.