Objective:

To analyze the interactions between the key actors of coffee growing in the State of Mexico, mediated by the presence of social capital networks, trust networks, cooperation networks and the degree of reciprocity between them, as well as their impact on said economic activity.

Methodology:

A mapping of key actors was carried out to which questionnaires and semi-structured interviews; imprinted interviews and direct observation were applied to graph and interpret the data through an analysis of social networks.

Results:

Despite being in different municipalities, the actors identify with each other, building a tenuous network of social capital; however, trust networks based on prestige, personal trust, and strategic trust, as well as cooperation networks show low levels of density and reciprocity. Due to the above, few key actors carry out activities such as transferring of knowledge, reputation, and market information; as well as promoting production through the collection of grain.

Limitations:

The study focuses on the network of key actors. For future research, larger networks will be analyzed.

Conclusions:

Key actors play a potentially important role in the transfer of knowledge and promotion of cooperation in coffee growing in Mexico, the creation of an ecosystem of social innovation in the region with the purpose of increasing the participation of Mexican coffee in the national market.

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