Differentiation of Nephelium lappaceum producers in Honduras: perspectives for the inclusive rural bioeconomy
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Background: This study analyzes the structural heterogeneity of Nephelium lappaceum (rambutan) producers in Atlántida, Honduras, establishing distinct typologies to evaluate their capacity to participate in the value chain and the emerging Inclusive Rural Bioeconomy. Methodology: Multivariate statistical techniques were applied to primary data from 314 randomly sampled producers. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) reduced dimensionality, K-means clustering defined producer typologies, and Kruskal–Wallis tests validated socioeconomic and organizational differences across clusters. Results: The analysis identified three distinct typologies, explaining 65.0% of the total variance and confirming marked agrarian dualism: Cluster 1 (91% of producers) represents small-scale, subsistence-oriented, low-capital farms; Cluster 2 (7%) comprises intermediate, innovative producers with higher organizational capital; and Cluster 3 (2%) consists of large-scale entrepreneurs with high capital concentration and direct market access (67% accessing financing). Structural inequality severely limits Cluster 1 from investing in value addition or capturing bioeconomic potential. Originality: The scientific novelty lies in providing an empirically validated classification of high-value non-traditional crop producers in Central America. It directly links structural dualism to a differentiated policy framework for an Inclusive Rural Bioeconomy, leveraging underutilized bioactive compounds in rambutan byproducts (peel and seed). Practical implications: Differentiated agricultural policies are required to mitigate inequality. Cluster 1 needs interventions focused on social capital and low-cost extension services, whereas Cluster 2 requires support for certification and collective valorization platforms to anchor added value to the territory. JEL-Classification : Q12, Q18, O13
Source: Research Square
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221436456