This line is oriented to the economic analysis of the agri-food system, from production and its transformation to food distribution, trade and consumption, taking into account not only efficiency and productivity, but also its sustainability linked to more environmentally and socially responsible practices. The aim is to achieve a competitive and sustainable agrifood system that efficiently manages biological resources, promotes economic growth and sustainable development. It uses an integrated approach that considers the interrelationships between all the agents of the agri-food system and their relationships with other agents of the bioeconomy and other economic sectors. To this end, the strategies of the agri-food processing and distribution industry, the commercialization and marketing of products and food consumption, as well as international trade are studied. Some of these aspects are traced in historical perspective to better understand the present situation. The results can help to develop an innovative and sustainable agri-food system that offers sufficient healthy, safe and sustainable food that consumers demand while protecting the environment and natural resources, mitigating climate change and the abandonment of rural areas. In other words, to achieve an efficient and sustainable agrifood system that guarantees competitiveness in the short term and sustainability in the long term.

This line consists of four sub-lines:

• Economic analysis of the agri-food sector: economic growth and sustainable development.
• Study of the competitiveness and sustainability of the agri-food system.
• Analysis of food consumption and food consumer behavior.
• Study of globalization processes, trade and international markets.