Diagnosis of Financial Education in the Agroindustrial Sector: A Study of a Province in Peru Compared to International Models

Abstract

Abstract– Financial inclusion is a key driver of rural economic development; however, its effectiveness intrinsically depends on the financial literacy of its users. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between financial literacy (knowledge, behavior, and skills) and financial inclusion (access, use, and quality) among granulated panela producers in the Piura highlands of Peru. The methodology employed was quantitative, with a non-experimental, correlational, and cross-sectional design, applied to a sample of 150 producers using validated questionnaires. The results revealed predominantly low and medium levels in both variables, due to structural and educational barriers. Nevertheless, inferential analysis using Spearman's rho demonstrated a very high and significant positive correlation (ρ = 0.928; p < 0.001). It is concluded that strengthening financial literacy is an essential requirement to guarantee the effective use of banking services and economic sustainability in the rural agro-industrial sector.