Agricultural production chains and local developme

The study analyzes local development in the Quevedo canton (Ecuador) based on the strengthening of its agricultural production chains, combining a review of scientific literature and a territorial diagnosis. It identifies the structural conditions, levels of association, and degree of commercial integration of the main crops (bananas, rice, cocoa, African palm, and tropical fruits) revealing an unequal and fragmented structure. The results highlight problems such as intermediation, limited access to credit, low levels of technification, and weak institutional governance, which limit the competitiveness and sustainability of the territory. The article concludes that strengthening chains with a territorial, inclusive, and sustainable approach is essential to boost the rural economy, reduce inequality, and consolidate an equitable local development model.