Towards the forest bioeconomy in Peru: value chain, technological trends, and human capital needs

Abstract

This paper deals with the analysis of the performance on Peru’s forestry, from the perspective of the links of its value chain, global technology trends that are impacting this industry and the availability of human capital. This piece of research is based in the review of official documents, an interview conducted with experts and opinion leaders, and a consensus-building workshop with the participation of representatives of industry, government and academia. One main conclusion is that Peru does not take full advantage of its forest resources mainly because the value chain is not well articulated, with clear weaknesses in the transformation link. Due to very conservative attitudes and lack of resources, innovations are not adopted; and a there is a gap between supply and demand of human capital at all levels. Peru needs a new development strategy incorporating the concept of basin management for territorial development, strengthening of the education and training programs, and a sound investment plan with a long range approach. Adoptions of innovations along the value chain is critical for Peru to make the transition to a forest bioeconomy able to yield positive socioeconomic impacts.