Impacto socioeconómico de la ganadería lechera en comunidades indígenas del ecuador

Abstract

The economic system of agricultural production in Ecuador is an integratedactivityinto the productive chains and markets in indigenous communities. Its comprehensive analysis allows characterizing and zoning production in these populations. Theintervention area was Colta,acantonin theChimborazo province. The data was obtained through direct interviews withdairy producers and processors, through random sampling by productive areas, covering twourban and fourrural parishes (Cajabamba, Sicalpa, Columbe, Cañí, Juan de Velasco and Santiago de Quito). Milk production is considered the most profitable activity, despite the low price that the producer receives. Currently, 81% of farmers receive less than 0.40 USD/L of milk, which covers production costs and contributes to a sustainable circular economy for the area. The production depends on a low technologylevel family system. Most of the production is destined for small marketing channels such as artisan cheese shops and sales to wholesalers. In conclusion, despite the limited technological development in the region, there are opportunities for improvement both in industry and in the social of vulnerable populations.