Agri-food systems: A regional perspective in innovation capabilities

Abstract

Present days, food systems are part of a global network of production, processing, distribution and consumption. Several changes in food consumption patterns boost continuous improvement and development of the food system process and new food system models according to the stage of evolution and size of economies, diversification of rural areas, the efficiency of producer organizations, export orientation and market power of different contexts. The projected human population of nine billion by 2050 has led an ever-growing discussion of the need for increased productivity in agri-food systems. The aim of this paper is analyze the main factors affecting collaboration practices between actors at the institutional level of Agri-food System in Santander Colombia. The research methodology includes techniques of content analysis and structured written questionnaires. The analysis unit consisted of a sample of eighteen actors representing universities, companies, public entities focused on issues of science and technology of the agro and associations of producers, was conducted. The main findings show the most frequent collaboration practice and the main innovation capabilities at the system level. The main recommendations focus on promoting the management of vertical, horizontal and lateral integration and Virtual collaboration.