Strategic Analysis of Improving the Quinoa Value Chain in Isfahan Province Based on the SWOT Approach
ahmad soleymanipour
1
(
Assistant Professor of Research, Department of Economic, Social, and Agricultural Extension Research, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of Isfahan Province, Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization, Isfahan, Iran
)
behrooz Hassanpour
2
(
بخش اقتصادی، اجتماعی و ترویجی، مرکز تحقیقات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی کهگیلویه و بویراحمد، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی،
)
Abolghasem Bagheri
3
(
Assistant Professor, Department of Agriculture, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
)
Keywords: Quinoa, Sustainable Agriculture, Aggressive strategy, Processing, Challenges, Opportunities,
Abstract :
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: Given the increasing impact of unfavorable climatic conditions on agriculture, quinoa—an adaptable pseudo-cereal resistant to salinity and drought—offers a viable alternative for sustainable crop production due to its high nutritional value. Despite Isfahan province possessing favorable agro-climatic potential for quinoa cultivation, significant challenges exist across its value chain. This applied research aimed to analyze these challenges and propose strategies for improvement.
Materials and Methods: Using a descriptive–analytical survey approach, data were collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale, validated for reliability and accuracy. The statistical population comprised stakeholders involved in various stages of the quinoa value chain in Isfahan. Data analysis employed SPSS software, with the SWOT framework used to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, leading to strategy formulation.
Findings: Based on the findings, the key constraints included absence of cultivation contracts (CV=0.158), lack of extension training (CV=0.119), failure to purchase quinoa from farmers (CV=0.369), inactive cooperatives in marketing (CV=0.383), low consumer awareness (CV=0.384), and limited access to production technologies (CV=0.188). SWOT analysis indicated that the aggressive strategy was determined as the preferred option for the development of the quinoa value chain.
Discussion and Conclusion: Based on the aggressive strategy with a focus on the development of scientific cultivation, the use of compatible genotypes, government support, and the development of processing industries, sustainable development in the quinoa value chain in Isfahan province can be provided.
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