Association as an organizational mechanism for local development and sustainability: qualitative evidence in small oil palm producers in Chiapas

Abstract

The association of small oil palm producers ( Elaeis) The cultivation of *Agouti guineensis * in Chiapas, Mexico, is analyzed as a potential mechanism for local development within a context of value chain asymmetries, economic vulnerability, and environmental concerns. Using a non-experimental, qualitative approach with a descriptive-interpretive design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three small-scale producers in the northern region (Palenque), complemented by direct observation of plots and harvesting processes. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) revealed that, despite the recognition of potential benefits—better prices, conditional access to inputs and credit, and a positive perception of sustainable practices (integrated management, natural fertilizer)—associative experiences are fragmented, reactive, and limited by distrust in leadership, lack of continuity, and dependence on intermediaries. These findings contrast with international literature that positions collective organization as a sine qua non for accessing sustainable markets (De Vos et al., 2023; Ayompe et al., 2023), but they coincide with regional evidence on the erosion of social capital in Chiapas contexts (Trejo-Sánchez & Valdiviezo Ocampo, 2022; Martínez et al., 2023). It is concluded that associativity offers transformative potential for organizational strengthening, market integration, and the adoption of regenerative practices, but it requires interventions focused on inclusive governance and the reduction of structural asymmetries to effectively contribute to equitable and sustainable local development.