Value Chain Approach in the Sustainable Tourism Sector: Perspectives from the Systematic Review of Scientific Literature

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15517/25xp2449

Keywords:

Value chains, Sustainable tourism, Tourism governance, Innovation, Social inclusion

Abstract

Introduction: Over the last decade, the value chain approach has played an increasingly significant role in sustainable tourism studies due to its capacity to offer a comprehensive overview of how products are generated, distributed, consumed, and even recycled throughout its links.

Objective: This article presents a systematic review of scientific literature published between 2003 and 2024 to analyze the conceptual evolution, empirical applications, and knowledge gaps regarding the value chain approach in sustainable tourism, with the aim of proposing perspectives for the formulation of public policies and management strategies.

Method: The research relies on the protocol established by Tranfield et al. (2003), which enables the structuring of evidence in a rigorous and replicable manner. The study exclusively considered 25 indexed and peer-reviewed studies, prioritizing those published in high-impact journals (Q1 and Q2) according to the Scimago Journal Rank (SJR).

Results: Findings reveal an evolution of the value chain concept beyond its original focus on economic efficiency toward models that integrate elements such as collaborative governance, digitalization, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Shared value, equal participation of actors, and a focus on territorial equity are identified as key factors.

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Author Biography

  • Marco Vinicio Soto Calderón, Sede de Occidente, Recinto de Grecia, Universidad de Costa Rica

    Docente e investigador en la carrera de Turismo Ecológico para el Departamento de Ciencias Naturales de la Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR), Sede de Occidente-Recinto de Grecia. Excoordinador de la carrera de Turismo Ecológico. Mis líneas de investigación se enfocan en turismo sostenible, ecoturismo, cadenas de valor, desarrollo local y planificación turística. Cuento con un Bachillerato en Turismo, Licenciatura en Turismo con énfasis en Administración de Empresas Turísticas y Hoteleras, una Maestría en Dirección y Planificación del Turismo por la Universidad de Alicante, España (UA), donde actualmente realizo mis estudios de Doctorado.

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Published

2026-01-20

How to Cite

Value Chain Approach in the Sustainable Tourism Sector: Perspectives from the Systematic Review of Scientific Literature. (2026). Reflexiones Journal, 106(1), 1-29. https://doi.org/10.15517/25xp2449

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