Exploring public-private partnerships in Latin America and the Caribbean using topic modeling and sentiment analysis

Abstract

Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial for supporting resource-constrained government budgets globally. Over the past two decades, studies have recorded significant advances in public-private partnerships (PPPs). However, PPPs in agribusiness within Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) remain underexplored. This study analyzes the primary issues related to PPPs in agribusiness across selected countries and compares sentiments regarding these partnerships within the analyzed countries. Using text mining, topic modeling, and sentiment analysis, the study found that the main issues revolve around infrastructure, impacting trade, flow, and services in regional, national, and continental agribusiness and exports. While PPPs are seen as an innovative approach to improving public services, sentiment analysis reveals that many countries express anger and disgust, primarily due to concerns about corruption and the state’s inability to manage or play an effective role in these public policies. This study highlights that integrating topic and sentiment data offers a comprehensive view that can inform more effective public policies and development strategies for PPPs in agribusiness.