Rural economy and poverty: the role of agriculture in economic development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64092/4x5w6f48Keywords:
Economic development, rural poverty, food security, sustainable development, agricultural policies, rural economyAbstract
This study analyzes the role of agriculture in the rural economy and its impact on poverty reduction, considering both the international context and the specific case of Ecuador. Using a qualitative approach based on a documentary review of research published between 1993 and 2026, the main theoretical and empirical contributions related to agricultural development, economic growth, and food security are examined. The results show that agriculture constitutes a strategic pillar for sustainable development due to its capacity to generate employment, stimulate local economies, and improve the incomes of rural populations. Furthermore, its impact is found to depend on structural factors such as access to productive resources, infrastructure, technological innovation, and the implementation of comprehensive public policies. The analysis also highlights the importance of producer organization and their integration into value chains as mechanisms to strengthen competitiveness and reduce inequalities. However, it is acknowledged that agricultural development is not automatic, as it faces limitations associated with inequality, lack of access to technology, and deficiencies in institutional management. In this sense, it is concluded that agriculture is not only an economic activity, but also a transformative tool capable of promoting inclusive development, improving food security, and contributing to the construction of more resilient and equitable economies.
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