The Conceptual Evolution of The Agribusiness Field of Study: From The Emergence of The Term to 2020

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the evolution of research trends in the field of agribusiness, identifying the most studied terms and themes from the conception of the term agribusiness up to the year 2020.   Theoretical Framework: In the integration of agriculture into industrial chains, the concepts of Agribusiness and Filière emerge. Gradually, an interdisciplinary field of study is structured. However, new elements begin to be faced: socio-environmental issues and technological development alter the dynamics of this field of study. Thus, it is necessary to structure a comprehensive knowledge of Agribusiness to understand this dynamic.   Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises bibliometric analysis in time series, using particularly the co-word technique. Data collection was carried out through the Scopus database, chosen for providing a broad view of the global and interdisciplinary scientific literature.   Results and Discussion: Terms such as "agribusiness," "agriculture," and "agroindustry" form the core of studies. The terms "animal," "economy/economic impact," and "supply chains" stand out for their high occurrence in all the periods analyzed.   Research Implications: A constancy of central themes and an evolution of peripheral themes in response to new environmental and technological challenges in agribusiness were observed.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature as one of the first articles exploring the dynamics and evolution of an interdisciplinary research field using bibliometric techniques.