SOCIOAGRONOMIC TYPIFICATION OF MAIZE PRODUCERS IN THE FRAILESCA REGION, CHIAPAS, MEXICO

Abstract

Background. Maize is one of the most widely cultivated cereals worldwide and represents the main crop in Mexico, not only because of its economic importance but also due to its deep social and cultural significance. In recent decades, agricultural intensification has caused degradation of agroecosystems and increased dependence on external inputs. These factors have raised production costs by more than 40 %, especially for small and medium-scale farmers. In response, it becomes necessary to design effective alternatives for improving the agroecosystem by identifying and characterizing the different types of maize producers in the region. Such typification allows for the recognition of shared potential and constraints to develop tailored strategies. Objective. To classify maize producers in the Frailesca region of Chiapas, Mexico, according to representative socio-agronomic characteristics, with the aim of designing targeted interventions. Methodology. The study was conducted in the municipalities of Villaflores, Villa Corzo, El Parral, and La Concordia, located in the Frailesca region of Chiapas, Mexico. It followed an interdisciplinary, descriptive, and exploratory design with a systemic approach. The target population consisted of maize producers selected through simple random sampling, resulting in a total of 192 participants. Information was collected through interviews, field visits, and direct observation. Data were analyzed using principal component analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and analysis of variance. Results. Three types of producers were identified, distinguished by their production levels and the use of maize by-products. Group I exhibits high productivity and commercial orientation. Group II shows low productivity and domestic use of by-products. Group III, although also low in productivity, is characterized by its ability to commercialize by-products. Implications. The results offer insight into the current structure of the maize agroecosystem and support the formulation of differentiated strategies based on producer profiles. Conclusion. Producers in the Frailesca region were classified into three groups based on their production characteristics and strategies for utilizing maize by-products. Group I combines high productivity with a commercial approach. Group II allocates its limited yields mainly for self-consumption. Group III, despite low productivity, stands out for its use and commercialization of maize by-products.