Connecting worlds: a bibliometric analysis of corporate political activity and corporate social responsibility in the agricultural sector

Purpose Academic interest in the relationship between corporate political activity (CPA) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been steadily increasing, with an emphasis on understanding the dynamics of these two areas of nonmarket corporate strategy Despite the relevance of this topic, especially in relation to the agricultural sector, research remains fragmented, largely because of the diverse perspectives of scholars shaped by their varying disciplinary backgrounds. Consequently, a critical knowledge gap remains regarding the bibliometric patterns and trends in the adoption of nonmarket strategies by agricultural actors to promote socioeconomic progress. Design/methodology/approach This research focuses on the CPA–CSR nexus in the agricultural sector, where actors have the potential to transcend traditional business boundaries and help promote a more equitable socioeconomic landscape. The study uses bibliometric analysis to explore 1,053 publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection database. Findings By mapping co-citation networks, geographical trends, and keyword co-occurrence, this study identifies key research clusters and gaps in the literature, offering innovative insights at the intersection of nonmarket strategies and regional influence. Originality/value This paper contributes to the CPA-CSR literature by offering a comprehensive bibliometric overview. It provides insights into the evolving landscape of agricultural political engagement and its implications for regional socio-economic development, laying a foundation for future interdisciplinary research at the intersection of business, policy, and society.