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A Competitive Model for Rural Agricultural Development: Insights from Family Farming in Lebrija, Santander, Colombia

Author

Listed:
  • Pablo Andrés Pérez Gutiérrez

    (Instituto de Investigaciones Xerira, Facultad de Ingenierías y Tecnologías, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

  • Jossie Esteban Garzon Baquero

    (Instituto de Investigaciones Xerira, Facultad de Ingenierías y Tecnologías, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

  • Daniela Bellon Monsalve

    (Instituto de Investigaciones Xerira, Facultad de Ingenierías y Tecnologías, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

  • Andrea Katherine Hernández Buitrago

    (Instituto de Investigaciones Xerira, Facultad de Ingenierías y Tecnologías, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

  • Freddy Ortiz Orduz

    (Ferragro, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

  • Youseline Garavito Hernández

    (Grupo de Investigación en Desarrollo Empresarial Competitivo Porter, Universidad de Investigación y Desarrollo, Bucaramanga 680001, Colombia)

Abstract

Family farming is essential for rural development and food security, yet it faces persistent structural barriers. This study aimed to develop a competitive model for Peasant, Family, and Community Agriculture (PFCA) in Lebrija, Colombia, by analyzing key factors affecting productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. A mixed-methods approach was used, integrating surveys, participatory workshops, and field visits across 79 family agricultural units (FAUs). Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and ordinal logistic regression (OLR) identified the impact of financial exclusion, low mechanization, and dependence on intermediaries, alongside strengths such as traditional knowledge transfer, family labor, and agroecological practices. The findings reveal a paradox: while PFCA resilience supports agricultural sustainability, it may also hinder modernization. To address this, a strategic action plan was developed with six axes: governance, commercialization, financing, technology, training, and climate mitigation. This framework provides policy recommendations for financial inclusion, direct market access, and technological innovation. The study offers a replicable model for policymakers, rural development agencies, and agricultural cooperatives, supporting sustainable and competitive family farming in Colombia and similar rural economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Pablo Andrés Pérez Gutiérrez & Jossie Esteban Garzon Baquero & Daniela Bellon Monsalve & Andrea Katherine Hernández Buitrago & Freddy Ortiz Orduz & Youseline Garavito Hernández, 2025. "A Competitive Model for Rural Agricultural Development: Insights from Family Farming in Lebrija, Santander, Colombia," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-20, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:15:y:2025:i:5:p:512-:d:1600870
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    References listed on IDEAS

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