Connectivity and centralization in the movement of pigs in the state of Mexico (2017-2021): an approach to alignment with the Sustainable Development

Abstract

The structure of the pig movement network in the State of Mexico was analyzed. Through the analysis of social networks, the main municipalities of origin and destination that participated in the commercialization of pigs for the slaughter, fattening, breeding, and livestock fair markets were identified, evaluating their centrality and betweenness in the network. The data from pig movement records authorized by the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality (SENASICA, for its acronym in Spanish) correspond to the period from 2017 to 2021. The results indicated that the general structure of the network is highly centralized in a small number of municipalities, such as La Paz and Ecatepec de Morelos, which functioned as key nodes in the distribution of pigs. This centralization favored commercial efficiency by guaranteeing a constant flow to strategic markets, contributing to food security and economic growth in the most connected municipalities. Nonetheless, important risks were also identified, such as vulnerability to network interruptions, economic inequalities between municipalities, and the generation of bottlenecks in distribution. In addition, the low density of connections between municipalities could limit network cohesion, highlighting the need to diversify trade relationships and strengthen connectivity to reduce risks and promote a more equitable and resilient network.