Financial Risks and Profitability in Blueberry Agro-Exporting Companies in Lima Provinces, Peru

Abstract

Objective: To determine the impact of financial risk management strategies on the profitability level of blueberry agroexporting companies in the Lima Provinces region, Peru. Method: Quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional study with a correlational scope. The population consisted of 30 individuals linked to three blueberry agro-exporting companies in Lima Provinces — investors, general managers, and accounting staff — all of whom were incorporated through census sampling. A structured self-administered questionnaire with 10 items per variable was applied. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α = 0.713). Inferential analysis was conducted using Pearson's chi-square test, supported by SPSS software version 26. Results: Pearson's chi-square test did not evidence a statistically significant association between financial risk management strategies and profitability level (χ² = 1.394; df = 2; p = 0.498). Exchange rate and liquidity risks were identified as the factors of greatest exposure for the companies in the sample; however, their management did not show a significant effect on profitability indicators during the period analyzed. Conclusion: Financial risk management strategies did not show a statistically significant impact on the profitability of blueberry agro-exporting companies in Lima Provinces. This finding suggests that the effectiveness of such strategies may be conditioned by the reduced sample size, the homogeneity of the companies studied, or the influence of uncontrolled external factors, underscoring the need for studies with larger samples and designs incorporating moderating variables of the financial and competitive environment.