Structural Diagnosis, Analysis, and Proposals for the Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus) Meat Market in the Andean Region

Abstract

The consumption of guinea pig meat has been increasing in recent years in the Andean regions. The objective of this research was to analyze how the variables that make up the guinea pig meat market and the actors associated with it are characterized and interrelated. Under an exploratory and descriptive non-experimental scope and by means of the MICMAC tool (matrix of crossed impacts), a structural analysis was carried out to identify the level of dependence and influence of the variables of the system, which were agreed upon by a select group of specialists; as well as their interdependence with the main stakeholders involved. The results obtained show that the variables with the greatest impact on the market -and whose control would make it possible to optimize the functioning of the system -are linked to customary celebrations, consumption habits and the increase in the employment rate due to guinea pig raising. One of the most influential actors is the media, due to its significant impact on the behavior of the three previous variables, as well as on other relevant actors within the market. This research is a starting point for the strategic planning process of the market behavior of this type of meat in the Andean regions of South America.