Interview: Roberto Bazua Campaña – Chairman of Asociacion de Agricultores del Rio Culiacan
In an interview for Veggies From Mexico, we talked to Roberto Bazua Campaña, a young farmer with broad experience in the farming sector from Sinaloa and current chairman of Rio Culiacan Farmers Association.
Roberto shared that his professional career started in 1998 at Invernaderos Santa Fe, where he was responsible for operations in high-technology greenhouses, heating, irrigation, field staff management, and packing facility in Imuris, Sonora. Later, from 1999 to 2003, he worked at Agricola Tarriba (Farmers Best) in the packing maintenance area; then, he participated in the selection and implementation of greenhouses and shade houses per area of production in Sinaloa, in cucumber, tomato, and bell pepper crops. And since 2004 to date, he works in the family business Empaques Valle del Sol in all areas such as production, packing, administration, and currently serving as CEO.
In this interview, Roberto discusses his professional career, the importance for farmers of belonging to farming organizations, the main challenges the industry is facing, and the trends he sees for the coming years.
1. What is your vision as chairman of Rio Culiacan Farmers Association?
My vision as chairman is to seek tools that allow our members to achieve profitability in their crops, mostly grain producers; also, to provide resources to improve in areas such as health, well-being, and education for farm workers and their families, employed by farming companies affiliated with our association.
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2. What projects are you currently working on at the Farmers Association?
We are currently increasing the involvement of new generations, sharing with them the activities, services, and benefits being developed within the organization.
3. What services does the Association provide to its affiliated growers, and how do you support them?
- Grain commercialization.
- Legal, financial, administrative, agricultural, food safety, and social responsibility advisory services.
- Representation before all three levels of government and farm-related agencies.
4. What are the challenges the farming sector in Sinaloa is currently facing?
The main challenge is achieving profitability within the sector, influencing public policies, working with organizations and relevant agencies, conducting crop and market research, adopting new technologies, and adapting to new uses and practices.
5. What is the current situation of water for agricultural use?
It is critical. Even when today we have enough water to complete a full cycle, there is a great need for a culture in this area, as our future depends on it.
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6. Why is it important to upgrade irrigation systems?
Mostly to measure water use and being able to achieve true control over this resource.
7. Why do you consider food safety and social responsibility important for farming companies?
These are market trends that must be addressed.
8. In your opinion, what trends will shape the farming sector in the coming years?
Food safety, sustainability, social responsibility, and healthy food.
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