Socioeconomic and environmental characterization of fine aroma native cocoa producers in the Amazonas region-Peru

Oliva-Cruz M.; Meléndez-Mori J.B.; Bobadilla L.G.; Rojas Briceño N.B.; Juarez-Contreras L.; Vigo C.N.; Escobedo Ocampo P.; Goñas Goñas M. · Heliyon (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e44386

Resumen

This study aims to characterize the production systems of fine-aroma native cocoa by evaluating producers' social, economic, and environmental conditions in the Amazonas region of Peru. A total of 180 surveys were conducted across three altitudinal ranges: A1 (120–500 m.a.s.l.), A2 (501–800 m.a.s.l.), and A3 (801–1200 m.a.s.l.), which reflect distinct agroecological and socioeconomic contexts. Quantitative data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test, while qualitative variables were examined through contingency tables and Correspondence Analysis. Principal Component Analysis was also used to explore correlations among production-related variables. The results show that most cocoa producers are smallholders cultivating less than 5 ha. Those in A1, despite facing greater challenges in terms of infrastructure and access to technical assistance, report the highest yields. Meanwhile, producers in A2 and A3 are more often organized, have better access to irrigation, training, and organic certification, and show greater adoption of sustainable practices, although their yields are comparatively lower. Additionally, producers recognize a decrease in the quantity and quality of water on their farms and are adopting environmental conservation practices, such as planting forest species, to protect the crop and biodiversity. This comprehensive characterization will allow the design of more effective interventions in future research and production projects in cocoa cultivation.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas