Sustainable development of farmers through production chains: Theoretical approaches and territorial evidence

Abstract

The development of agricultural value chains is a strategic pathway to strengthen productivity, generate added value, enhance market integration, and promote territorial sustainability in Amazonian regions. This study aimed to analyze the importance of value chains for the economic development of farmers in the Tambopata province, Madre de Dios region, through a literature review and territorial analysis. Methodologically, a descriptive-analytical study with a qualitative approach was conducted, based on a narrative review of academic literature and official institutional sources on production, innovation, market integration, and forest conservation. The analysis incorporated theoretical frameworks on value chains, global governance, and sustainable development. The main findings demonstrate that the sector's constraints are not limited to primary production but also include limitations in infrastructure, financing, technical assistance, processing, traceability, and negotiation. Furthermore, specific opportunities were identified in the Brazil nut, cacao, cupuaçu, and forest conservation value chains. In March 2026, eight native communities and 22 small-scale producers projected sales of S/ 4.3 million with 418 tons of sustainable products. It is concluded that regional development policy must shift from a focus on primary production volume to a strategy based on integration, processing, innovation, and access to value-added markets.