Agriculture In Puerto Vallarta.

Human Interest
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An Economic Activity That Could Sustain Local Life.


Before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, the Banderas Bay region was inhabited by various indigenous groups, such as the Huichol, Cora, and Teco, who practiced subsistence agriculture. They grew corn, beans, squash, and chili, using rudimentary methods such as slash-and-burn. During the colonial period, the establishment of haciendas in the region brought the introduction of crops such as cocoa, sugar cane, and coffee, although agricultural development in what is now Puerto Vallarta remained limited due to its geographic isolation. Agriculture in nearby areas, such as Mascota and San Sebastián del Oeste, was more important.

With the founding of Las Peñas de Santa María de Guadalupe (the original name of Puerto Vallarta) in 1851, agriculture gained local importance to feed a small population of fishermen and farmers. Basic crops such as corn, beans, and coconut were predominant. The conditions of isolation continued to hamper significant agricultural development. In the first decades of the 20th century, Puerto Vallarta began to export coconuts and other agricultural products to the domestic market. However, it was not until the middle of the century that the arrival of tourism began to transform the local economy, gradually displacing agriculture as the main economic activity.

Beginning in the 1960s, agriculture in Puerto Vallarta declined due to the boom in tourism, driven by the filming of the movie The Night of the Iguana and the construction of hotel infrastructure. Much agricultural land was urbanized to make way for tourist developments.

Today, agriculture in Puerto Vallarta plays a secondary role compared to tourism, which dominates the municipality's economy. The areas dedicated to agriculture are small and are concentrated mainly in the rural areas of Las Palmas, Ixtapa and Boca de Tomatlán.

Bananas, mangoes and soursops are grown, products that are also in demand in the tourist sector (hotels and restaurants). On a smaller scale, tomatoes, chili peppers, and squash are grown, mainly for local consumption. Although their production has decreased over time, it is still present in some communities.

Much of the land suitable for agriculture has been urbanized or destined for tourism development. Modernization in irrigation and cultivation techniques is limited compared to other agricultural regions in Jalisco. Many young people prefer to work in the tourism sector due to better wages and opportunities. Although it is not the main economic activity, agriculture still plays a role in the local economy. Some agricultural products are promoted in organic markets and local fairs as part of Puerto Vallarta's cultural and gastronomic offering.

Puerto Vallarta has an agricultural history that dates back to pre-Hispanic times, but in recent decades, tourism has displaced agriculture as the economic axis. Currently, agricultural activity in the municipality is limited, with a focus on agriculture.
production of tropical fruits and vegetables for local and tourist consumption. However, this activity remains relevant in rural areas and could be strengthened as a complement to sustainable tourism and the cultural rescue of the region.

Relying exclusively on tourism as an economic driver can be a strategic mistake, especially in places like Puerto Vallarta, where its economy depends largely on this activity.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a clear example of how tourism can collapse in the face of unexpected global events. Travel restrictions, the closure of hotels, restaurants and beaches paralyzed practically the entire economy of Puerto Vallarta, leaving thousands of people without income. In many tourist destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, there are high and low seasons. In the months with less influx of international visitors, the economy can suffer, affecting local businesses and workers.

An economy based exclusively on tourism can cause overexploitation of natural resources and environmental problems, such as excessive urbanization, beach pollution and loss of biodiversity. This, in turn, can decrease the attractiveness of the destination in the long term. By focusing only on tourism, an economy depends on external factors such as the purchasing power of foreign visitors, the stability of airlines, and the perception of security. If something fails in these areas, the repercussions are immediate.

Developing agriculture strengthens food self-sufficiency, allowing the municipality to produce its own food. This not only reduces dependence on imported products, but also ensures a basic provision in case of economic crises or natural disasters. Agriculture can generate jobs in Puerto Vallarta's rural communities, offering opportunities for those who do not wish to migrate to the tourism sector. This helps keep agricultural traditions alive and reduces economic inequality between urban and rural areas.

With the growing interest in local and organic products, Puerto Vallarta could take advantage of its rich biodiversity to produce fresh, natural food destined not only for the local market, but also for hotels and restaurants seeking to promote local gastronomy. Agriculture is not isolated from tourism. On the contrary, it can complement it through agrotourism, offering experiences such as visits to orchards, traditional cooking workshops, and tastings of fresh products. This diversifies the tourist offer and generates additional income.

By diversifying the economy with a solid agricultural base, Puerto Vallarta would be better prepared to face crises. The combination of sectors allows to cushion the impact of global or local problems that affect tourism.

A model to strengthen agriculture in Puerto Vallarta

  1. Investment in agricultural technology:


Implementing modern irrigation systems and sustainable farming techniques can increase agricultural productivity in rural areas.

      2. Promoting local markets:


Creating permanent spaces to sell agricultural products from the region, such as community markets or fairs, helps strengthen the local economy.

      3. Promoting agricultural education:


Providing training to local producers on new technologies, organic agriculture and sustainable practices ensures a promising future for this sector.

      4. Government support:


It is essential that local and state authorities allocate resources for the development of the agricultural sector, whether through subsidies, loans or support programs for small producers.

       5. Agrotourism as a new experience:


Incorporating agricultural experiences into tourism can generate extra income for farmers and, at the same time, enrich the cultural offering of the municipality.

Diversifying Puerto Vallarta's economy by strengthening activities such as agriculture is an essential strategy to guarantee economic stability and long-term sustainability. The COVID-19 pandemic made clear the fragility of relying solely on tourism, and although this remains a key pillar, it is essential to promote other sectors that enrich the local economy.

Agriculture, in addition to offering employment and food security, can become an ally of tourism through initiatives such as agrotourism and the promotion of local products. This will not only benefit rural communities, but will also contribute to preserving the cultural and natural identity of Puerto Vallarta.