Sustainability and Performance in Agribusinesses: The Case of Vegetable Export Businesses in Mexico

In: Management of sustainable development, Band 8, Heft 1, S. 15-21

Abstract

Abstract
The study of sustainability has become an increasingly relevant topic for governments, companies, and researchers. As a result, the number of studies in this field has increased substantially, with a special focus on agribusiness. This study aims to analyze the performance of vegetable export enterprises in Mexico, taking into account the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability. To achieve this objective, a survey was designed and administered to vegetable exporters in the northwest of Mexico, and indicators were created that allowed each of the dimensions of sustainability to be evaluated. Additionally, a semi-structured interview was designed and conducted in a specific export company. The results indicate that performance is strongly oriented towards economic goals and that the social and environmental aspects of sustainability are not prioritized. In conclusion, one can claim that there is an imbalance among the three dimensions of sustainability within the companies studied, with performance primarily focusing on financial and economic indicators.