Elaboración de un plan estratégico para la exportación de vino de flor de jamaica desde Ecuador hacia el Reino Unido.

Abstract

The cultivation of the Jamaica flower in Ecuador has been unpopular, despite its beneficial health properties and its various culinary applications. This plant, scientifically known as Hibiscus sabdariffa, has a series of benefits ranging from antioxidant properties to its use in the preparation of refreshing and healthy drinks. However, its production has been mainly restricted to some regions of the country, such as the cantons of Isidro Ayora, Pasaje and the Amazon region. These areas have been shown to have conditions conducive to their growth, such as a warm climate and suitable soils, which favors their development. With the growth of awareness about health and wellness, the Jamaica flower has begun to receive more attention due to its many benefits. Its expansion in the Amazon represents an excellent opportunity to promote sustainable economic development in rural communities that are looking for alternatives to diversify their sources of income. Not only could the Jamaica flower turn these communities into key suppliers in the domestic and international market, but it could also encourage responsible and sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the environment. Despite its potential, the industrialization and commercialization of the Jamaica flower and its derivatives are still limited in Ecuador. To achieve levels of competitiveness in the global market, it is necessary to consider various agroclimatic factors, as well as consumer preferences and needs. This includes the implementation of appropriate agronomic techniques that maximize product production and quality, as well as adapting extraction and processing processes to meet market standards. Scientific studies have highlighted that Jamaica flower wine has a high antioxidant capacity and a notable content of polyphenols. These compounds not only contribute to the stability of the product but are also related to its health benefits. It has been observed that Jamaica flower wine maintains its stability and antioxidant capacity at room temperature, which is an advantage in terms of storage and distribution, minimizing the risk of oxidation of the phenolic compounds that give it its organoleptic properties. Research on the feasibility of exporting Jamaica flower wine to the United Kingdom is particularly relevant in this context. It has been established that there is a growing interest in the British market for exotic, high-quality products that highlight the cultural traditions and agricultural wealth of other countries. To carry out this analysis, a study was developed under a descriptive, documentary, field and qualitative approach, using a combination of primary and secondary sources to obtain solid and relevant information. Official pages such as ProEcuador and Trade Map provided valuable data on the market, helping to identify trends and opportunities. In addition, interviews were conducted with experts in the field, which allowed the findings to be enriched with qualified opinions and knowledge of the sector. These interviews not only helped validate the information collected, but also provided insights into the right marketing strategies for the product. Throughout the study, the importance of having a well-structured business plan in place to ensure success in a new international market was highlighted. This plan should include a detailed analysis of the market, identification of opportunities, and assessment of associated risks. In the specific case of Jamaica flower wine, the interest in products that are not only exotic, but also offer high quality was confirmed. This suggests that the introduction and consolidation of this product in the British market is not only viable, but also promising, thus presenting a path of growth and development for both Ecuadorian producers and United Kingdom consumers.