Interactions and synergies of the tourist - gastronomic ecosystem as a generator of sustainable development in the Cuenca -Ecuador

At present, sustainable tourist destinations cover a growing interest worldwide, however, the generation of knowledge regarding tourist - gastronomic ecosystems is scarce. The main characteristic of a tourist ecosystem is the creation of joint value between the actors and elements that comprise it, the identification of the intrinsic value chain to the ecosystem being fundamental. The value chain includes different branches of gastronomic activity, starting agri -food production, distribution through channels, transformation and finally its tasting. This research will adopt a correlational and mixed design, with a cross -section and exploratory, through the application of different methodological instruments to the target population, information processing (SPSS, Stata, TI ATLAS), data analysis and speeches, contrast of results, production of products and conclusions. In this context, the research proposal has considered the sustainable development objectives of the 2030 Agenda as a fundamental pillar. The results will identify the elements that make up the value chain from a holistic perspective, analyze the potential and degree of development of the same in order to encourage synergies and competitive advantages that provide added value to the ecosystem, allowing to determine the map of tourist value -gastronomic value of the Cuenca canton.

20th UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PROJECT COMPETITION