Purpose:

To provide a conceptual framework for the schematization of the water-food-international trade nexus using the actantial model, based on the qualitative analysis of the relationships that occur among its participants with an integrative approach.

Methodological Design:

It is explained under the logic of the actantial model, centered on the description and classification of characters, also known as actants. The analysis was based on the review of articles that present the context and discussion of the elements of the actantial model, enabling the identification of the main characteristics that explain the actant and its interrelationships through schematization in the study’s nexus.

Results:

The results provide a schematic and qualitative understanding of the underlying relationships among the elements comprising the water-food-international trade nexus, offering a novel perspective and arguing for the roles played by each actant component and nexus axes. This is significant because virtual water trade can lead to serious issues of hydro food dependency, necessitating the formulation of strategic and effective public policies in both the short and long term.

Research Limitations:

It is suggested to complement this research with a quantitative analysis from a network complexity perspective. This analysis would allow for the assessment of the effects of these interrelationships both theoretically and practically, while also integrating other agents that strategically shape water and trade policies, aiming to reduce hydro-food dependence. Findings: These interrelationships are diverse and intensive, underscoring the significance of global as well as national scale comprehension of the nexus.