Agricultural producers undergoing productive reconversion in the municipality of Atltzayanca, Tlaxcala

Abstract

In Mexico, organic agriculture is primarily associated with small farmers. The state of Tlaxcala has limited land dedicated to organic production, with few organic production units and certified organic producers. The objective of this study was to analyze the impact generated by the agricultural practices of organic producers in Altzayanca, Tlaxcala, on the territorial development of the municipality, analyzing their effects in terms of environmental preservation, economic efficiency, and social equity. The methodology employed is eminently qualitative. The target population is the 169 producers enrolled in the Organic Management Plan program developed and managed by the Secretariat for Agricultural Promotion SIA. A total of 39 producers were interviewed, three technicians and three interviews were conducted with institutional figures (the director of Rural Development of the municipality of Altzayanca, an Ejidal Commissioner, and a former City Councilor). Interviews with producers and field data reveal a low impact on the municipality's development due, among other factors, to an insufficient grassroots organizational structure, the lack of a market that values ??organic production, insufficient institutional support for training in organic production techniques, difficulties in accessing financing, limited public awareness of the benefits of organic products, and limited dissemination of the conversion of other producers.