Hass Avocado Value Chain: Interinstitutional Process Towards Exportation in Cauca, Colombia

Abstract

This research aimed to characterize the production system of avocado (Persea americana Hass) and describe the value chain in the department of Cauca (Colombia), through the analysis of its dynamics and the typification of the actors and their interrelationships was developed between 2019 and 2021 by AGROSAVIA. The methodology corresponded to descriptive mixed type research, which combines different techniques for the collection and analysis of information, such as interactive workshops (clickers), transects, interviews and surveys to groups of producers organized to consult on biophysical, social, economic and technological factors, that influence the competitiveness of the system and the value chain. It was possible to determine that the Hass avocado system in the department of Cauca, is heterogeneous, dispersed, with different degrees of modernization and articulation to the national and international market, and with a technological advance resulting from interinstitutional interventions and international cooperation in the last 15 years, which generate increasing access to international markets by small and medium producers. Limitations were identified in the system and in the value chain that must be addressed to optimize the productive capacity that is beginning to be installed in the area to serve export markets.