Jalisco to Boost Agricultural Profitability, Youth Employment

Jalisco’s Agrifood Council (CAJ) has launched the Aprende y Agroemprende (Learn and Launch Your Agri-Business) initiative to address two major challenges in the agricultural sector: the low profitability of traditional crops and the lack of opportunities for young people entering the industry.

Roberto de Alba Macías, President, CAJ, stated that the program aims to help farmers transition toward more profitable and climate-resilient crops such as chia, tamarind, peanuts, and oats. These crops require less water and are increasingly in demand in global markets. “This initiative offers producers four alternative crops with guaranteed purchase agreements from major national companies, eliminating intermediaries and increasing profitability,” said Margarita Franco, Coordinator of Agribusiness, CUValles, University of Guadalajara.

The program also seeks to engage young professionals in agriculture by providing training in modern agricultural practices, fair trade, and biotechnology. The goal is to create a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs who can apply advanced technologies to improve productivity and sustainability.

One key component of the initiative is linking academia with the agricultural sector, ensuring that students, graduates, and young professionals gain practical knowledge and industry connections. The first phase of the program focuses on contract-based chia production, supported by Mexico’s leading superfood export companies.

To further strengthen the agricultural workforce, CAJ and CROC Jalisco have also introduced the Agroemployment Fairs, where socially responsible companies such as Marisa, Prisa, Walmart, Ibarra, Jaloma, and Gas Rosa will offer job opportunities with social benefits in rural areas. Beyond improving agricultural profitability, the initiative aims to reduce youth migration, generate employment, and help young professionals establish long-term careers in the sector.