A Strategy for the Sustainability of Peru’s Blueberry Exports: Diversification and Competitiveness

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

e paper is an empirical study of the concentration and comparative advantages of Peruvian blueberry exports in the 21st century. It is based on a profound literature review, where the authors identified previous research for other agricultural and selected non-agricultural commodities, and on calculations of the HHI (for both values and quantities) and RCA indices on the industry and company levels, based on the relevant HS code. The conducted research seems adequate, but its presentation, interpretation, and the way the text is organized need to be improved before the paper can be published.

 

Firstly, the goals and hypotheses of the study are not clearly stated in the introduction and method sections. The suggested research question “What has been the development of the sustainability of Peru's blueberry exports through the analysis of

diversification and competitiveness?” is a) too vaguely defined (the link between sustainability and the used indicators, i.e., whether a low HHi and better RCA are conducive to environmental and overall sustainability, is never examined in the paper and seems overall contra-intuitive) and b) because of the above-mentioned the question is never fully answered in the results and conclusion sections (there are recommendations on sustainability, but they do not appear to be derived from the research). Therefore, one can recommend reducing the research question to the mere examination of the concentration and performance of the industry and adding one to two hypotheses about the expected results based on the literature review. This is, in my view, the minimum improvement required for the paper to be published.

 

Secondly, given the length of the literature review, one could recommend a) structuring it (organizing the text into smaller chunks and adding subheadings to them) and b) re-arranging the argumentation so that general information is followed by evidence from the world level/developing countries and later by Latin America/Peru (if available). Also, one should explain the use of studies on non-agricultural commodities, i.e., how they are related to blueberries.

 

Lastly, the results should be interpreted according to the improved research question/hypotheses. In this vein, one should revise table 9 since its heading claims that the results contain HHI, but the interpretation speaks of absolute values.

Author Response

Dear Evaluator,

I would like to inform you that we have made the requested improvements to the 
article.

Firstly, we have clarified the objectives and hypotheses of the study. The 
research question has been reformulated to focus on industry concentration and 
performance, adding specific hypotheses based on the literature review.

Additionally, we have structured the introduction into smaller sections with 
subtitles, and reorganized the argumentation to follow a logical sequence that 
progresses from general to specific information, concluding with Peru. We have 
also removed the use of studies on non-agricultural products.

Finally, the results have been reinterpreted according to the research question. 
Table 9 has been reviewed to ensure that the header and interpretation are 
consistent.

We believe these changes have significantly improved the presentation, 
interpretation, and organization of the text, meeting the minimum requirements 
for publication.

Best regards,

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The offers an insightful and comprehensive analysis of how Peru can sustain and enhance its blueberry export industry through strategic diversification and competitive practices. The study employs robust quantitative methods, including the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and the Balassa Index, to assess market concentration and comparative advantage, respectively. However, for the non-related readers of this article, a broader explanation on how to analyze these indices is needed.

A standardization or a benchmark analysis that explain these values in a context will help the reader understand better the meaning of these numbers.   

The findings are interesting, highlighting the growth of Peru's blueberry exports, especially to key markets such as the United States, where exports have surged by an average of 115.03% annually. Additionally, the research underscores significant growth in European markets. Despite this expansion, the study prudently identifies the risks associated with high market concentration, notably in the United States, where the HHI values indicate a substantial dependency.

One of the standout aspects of this research is its thorough examination of Peru's comparative advantage in blueberry exports. The Relative Comparative Advantage (RCA) values reinforce Peru's strong position in the United States market, demonstrating the country's specialization and efficiency.

The authors' conclusions are both insightful and actionable. They emphasize the need for Peru to diversify its export markets to mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on specific markets. The recommendations are pragmatic and forward-thinking, advocating for the exploration of new markets, enhancement of logistic infrastructure, improvement of agricultural practices to promote environmental sustainability, and the adaptation of marketing strategies to cater to emerging markets and comply with international regulations.

The primary focus of the paper is on ensuring the long-term sustainability of Peru's blueberry export industry. It contributes to the broader discussion on sustainable economic practices, a core area of interest for the journal.

The literature review is appropriate and comprehensive. The comprehensive approach taken by the paper, which includes economic, environmental, and strategic considerations, reflects the multifaceted nature of sustainability.

A broader discussion on the "People" side of Sustainability needs attention. Agricultural practices in Latin America and many parts of the world leave out the well-being of workers, and the positive engagement with the community. I did not see information regarding this side of sustainability practices.    

Overall, this article provides a well-rounded and strategic roadmap for ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Peru's blueberry exports. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers interested in agricultural exports and market diversification strategies.

Author Response

Dear Reviewer,

Thank you for your valuable suggestions and comments on our article. We have made significant improvements based on your recommendations, ensuring greater clarity and depth in our analysis.

Explanation of Indices

We have expanded the definition of the Herfindahl-Hirschman and Balassa indices, providing a comprehensive overview of these indices.

Aspects of Human Sustainability

In response to your observation regarding the need for a broader discussion on the human aspect of sustainability, we have incorporated a section in the introduction.

We are confident that these enhancements make our article even more valuable for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers. We deeply appreciate your suggestions, which have contributed to strengthening our work.

We remain attentive to any additional comments you may have and thank you in advance for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Jose Carlos Montes

Principal Author

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

I have no further comments.