Search

Beekeeping is a vital economic activity for smallholder farmers; therefore, it is essential to provide beekeepers with information regarding the profitability and productivity of box hives to encourage them to embrace the technology. However, scant information is available to comprehensively compare the profitability and output of traditional and modern beehives. This study seeks to compare the performance of traditional and modern beehives in Baringo South Sub-County. Simple random sampling was used in conjunction with a cross-sectional survey to collect data from the 197 beekeepers who participated in the study. A gross margin analysis was performed to understand the returns of traditional and modern hives. According to the findings, individuals who used traditional beehives had a higher overall operational cost of Ksh. 1449.44 per hive, whereas those who used modern hives had a total operational cost of Ksh. 1000.73. In addition, the study also demonstrated that those that utilised modern beehives received larger gross margins in Kenyan shillings 7917.74, whilst those who used traditional beehives received Ksh. 5590.59. According to the study’s findings, modern beekeeping generates higher returns than traditional beekeeping. As a result, farmers should be encouraged to employ modern beehives to generate higher returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the economic implications of hybrid plants combining photovoltaic (PV) and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies with energy storage in response to Chile's ongoing energy transition. Utilizing the System Advisor Model (SAM), six diverse locations were evaluated to assess energy generation profiles, calculate the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), and analyze gross margins. The key finding is that higher solar multiples or storage capacities do not consistently lead to lower LCOE, primarily due to operational strategies aligning CSP generation profiles with PV. Notably, northern regions consistently yield higher gross margins despite occasional zero marginal costs, while areas near Santiago experience lower gross margins, with Salamanca presenting the lowest margin. This highlights the critical role of available solar resources in shaping economic outcomes.

Rearing of replacement heifers makes up a significant part of the total costs in dairy farming. Nevertheless, the average age at first calving for dairy heifers still stays well above 2 years in many countries. This study examined the economic and environmental impacts of increased heifer growth rates and reduced replacement rates on Norwegian dairy farms. The current average growth rate in Norway (baseline scenario) was compared to an accelerated growth rate scenario. Within each of the two growth rate scenarios, we compared three different cow replacement rates. A farm account survey dataset containing physical and economic data on 311 Norwegian farms was clustered into three farm groups: small, medium, and large. To model economic consequences, we used the whole-farm linear programming model ScotFarm. A life cycle analysis model was used to model the environmental impacts of the baseline scenario and an accelerated growth rate scenario on the three farm groups. Accelerated heifer growth rate had a positive effect (14–28%) on farm annual gross margin depending on farm size. While accelerated growth rate resulted in only minor reductions in total emissions at farm level compared to the baseline scenario, reduced replacement rate lowered total farm level emissions by up to 8%, and emissions per unit of output by up to 6%. We conclude that an accelerated heifer growth rate scenario could potentially increase farm gross margin by some 14–28% compared with a baseline growth rate scenario. Reducing the replacement rate would be more efficient to reduce farm−level greenhouse gas emissions.

The escalation of crises related to water quantity of quality, energy, food, and the environment has posed numerous challenges to sustainable development in the agricultural sector. This study seeks to establish an optimal and sustainable framework within the agricultural sector by meeting the objectives of the WEF (Water-Energy-Food) nexus index and environmental. For this, we individually optimized the objectives: maximizing the WEFN index (O1), minimizing CO2 emissions (O2), reducing chemical fertilizer consumption (O3), minimizing chemical pesticide usage (O4), and maximizing gross margin (O5) under various electrical conductivity (EC) scenarios (optimistic, moderate, and pessimistic) within the irrigation network of the Jiroft plain in Iran. In the second stage, we employed a Multi-Objective Programming (MOP) Model to attain these objectives using a weighted sum approach simultaneously. The results of the first stage revealed that under moderate and pessimistic EC irrigation water scenarios, significant alterations in the crop selection within the optimized models for O1 and O5 objectives occurred compared to the baseline scenario, which did not consider EC irrigation water. Specifically, in the pessimistic scenario with an EC irrigation water level of 2.25 ds/m, crops such as onions, tomatoes, and potatoes were replaced within the optimal cropping pattern by wheat, barley, and green-maize, leading to a notable decline in program efficiency. The results from the MOP optimization model indicated that in the pessimistic EC irrigation water scenario, the WEFN index, CO2 emissions, fertilizer consumption, pesticide consumption, and gross margin would change by approximately +12%, −48%, −28%, −8%, and −74%, respectively, compared to the baseline scenario. Consequently, an increase in EC irrigation water, despite improving environmental conditions, would substantially diminish economic profit. Thus, overlooking the impact of EC irrigation water in the WEF nexus analysis could result in misleading conclusions.

This paper assessed the smoked marine fish markets along the Central-Ashanti region trade corridor of Ghana by adopting the structure-conduct-performance framework. Through a multi-stage sampling technique, 158 fish smokers, 100 wholesalers, and 120 retailers were sampled for primary data collection. Using the market concentration ratio and Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, the smoked marine fish market was found to be very competitive during the major season and weakly oligopolistic during the minor season, regardless of the fish type traded. The conduct of key market players was done in an open environment devoid of interference or collusion, with minimal entry barriers, if any. Consistent with a priori expectations, the smoked marine fish market performed much better at the retail node than at the processing and wholesale nodes of the chain. However, the most popular marketing channel through which smoked marine fish flows from fish smokers to final consumers via wholesalers and retailers was identified as the least efficient in terms of performance, irrespective of the fish type traded and the season within which the trading occurred.

ABSTRACTSustainable food systems require mechanisms that assure consumers about the sustainability of agricultural production. Building on the existing literature on the impact of sustainability standards, this study is the first to assess the effectiveness of participatory guarantee systems (PGS) for the certification of organic produce. The study uses representative farm-level data on local vegetable value chains in northern Vietnam and uses a broad set of sustainability outcomes as well as counterfactual analysis, including systematic robustness checks. The results show that PGS significantly improves farm profitability (+117%), agroecology performance (+40%), and gives farmers more choice of sales channels (+23%). However, PGS had no significant effect on returns to labour and reduced the average crop yield. Capacity development on nursery practices, transplanting of healthy seedlings rather than direct seeding, reduced tillage, and collective crop planning and management are some of the innovations that can counter adverse effects on crop yields, increase soil health as well as improve returns to labour, and thus attract more youth to farming. Overall, the study shows that organic PGS can make vegetable production more economically viable and more agroecologically sustainable.

The production structure of farms has a great importance in the context of Romania where there are many mixed farms and most of them have problems of economic viability. Optimization of the production structure is essential in ensuring the viability of farms therefore our study focuses on applying the model of linear programming for the optimization of the production structure. The model was applied to a case study where the optimization was performed from different perspectives by using various economic indicators such as the standard output, gross margin, profit per hectare and production costs. The results have shown that the optimal structure differs depending on the farms’ medium and long-term objectives. As a result of the analysis for the proposed scenarios, to increase the efficiency, the use of the category of youth under 1 year old must be abandoned and the cattle for meat category should be developed. Gross margin was found to be the most suitable indicator depending on which the optimal production structure should be modeled.

The study investigated the profitability of oil palm processing venture in Ola Oluwa Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria. The sampled 120 respondents for the study were selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Field surveys were carried out using structured interview schedule to obtain primary data utilized for the study. Data analysis was carried out using frequencies, percentages, means, and regression analysis. Results of the descriptive analysis revealed that the majority of the respondents were middle-aged (mean = 58.43 years) (92.5%), married (55.83%), female (100%), having a mean of the household size of 5 persons per household. The majority (60.00%) of the respondents had no formal education; do not own an oil palm processing unit (77.31%); small-scale processors (44.54%), with a mean of 37.21 litres of palm oil per production cycle. The mean years of oil palm processing experience, total revenue, total production cost, gross margin, and net income from oil palm processing per year were 28.39 years, ₦243,472.900, ₦103,088.808, ₦155,521.592 and ₦140,384.092 respectively. Regression results revealed that the cost of oil palm bunches, the cost of firewood, the cost of kerosene, and matches, and the cost grinding were positive significant determinants of the level of gross margin from oil palm processing in the study area. Based on the findings, the study concluded that despite the profitability oil palm processing venture in the study area, it is operated on a small-scale predominantly by aged married and widowed women; hence provision of financial assistance through low-interest loans from agricultural banks or any other related financial institution would help improve their productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research investigates safety practice compliance among urban vegetable farmers in Ghana's Ashanti Region and its implications for the environment, farmers' health, and consumer safety. Design/methodology/approach: An empirical approach was adopted, utilizing field survey data from 387 urban vegetable farmers in key vegetable-producing communities. The study employed various data analytical techniques, including frequency distributions, a Bonferroni multiple comparisons test, and ordered logistic regression. Findings: The research emphasizes the need for enhanced awareness and education among farmers to ensure adherence to safety practices. It reveals a significant positive relationship between farmers' awareness and compliance, underlining the role of informed decision-making and knowledge dissemination. Additionally, higher gross margin values are associated with increased compliance, indicating the motivating influence of profitability in allocating resources for safety measures. Furthermore, farming experience is positively linked to compliance, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge and expertise. Practical implications: Based on the findings, the research offers policy recommendations to promote compliance with safety practices. These include enhancing farmer education and awareness programs, improving profitability and market access, fostering knowledge-sharing platforms, addressing affordability concerns, and strengthening enforcement and monitoring. Implementing these measures will enhance compliance, safeguarding the well-being of farmers, consumers, and the environment, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of Ghana's urban vegetable sector. Research limitations/implications: While this study focused specifically on urban vegetable farmers, pesticide usage extends beyond vegetable production in Ghana. Future research should incorporate essential crops like maize, cassava, and rice to provide a more comprehensive assessment of pesticide practices and their implications in the broader agricultural context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agronomy Science is the property of University of Life Sciences in Lublin and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Sustainable food systems require mechanisms that assure consumers about the sustainability of agricultural production. Building on the existing literature on the impact of sustainability standards, this study is the first to assess the effectiveness of participatory guarantee systems (PGS) for the certification of organic produce. The study uses representative farm-level data on local vegetable value chains in northern Vietnam and uses a broad set of sustainability outcomes as well as counterfactual analysis, including systematic robustness checks. The results show that PGS significantly improves farm profitability (+117%), agroecology performance (+40%), and gives farmers more choice of sales channels (+23%). However, PGS had no significant effect on returns to labour and reduced the average crop yield. Capacity development on nursery practices, transplanting of healthy seedlings rather than direct seeding, reduced tillage, and collective crop planning and management are some of the innovations that can counter adverse effects on crop yields, increase soil health as well as improve returns to labour, and thus attract more youth to farming. Overall, the study shows that organic PGS can make vegetable production more economically viable and more agroecologically sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the economic efficiency of soybean cultivars at different soil tillage system (ploughing method, reduced tillage, strip tillage). The study was based on the results of a five-year (2016-2020) field study, conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Kępa Puławy (farm in Osiny), belonging to the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Puławy. In the scheme of trial two cultivars of soybean: Aldana (000 – early) and Merlin (00-mid-early) were used. The strip-till system brought the highest value of harvested soybean seeds of Merlin cultivar – 6,262 PLN/ha (mean in 2016-2020). The high value was also obtained under full ploughing system (6,251 PLN/ha). The highest profitability of soybean cultivation determined based relation production value of seeds to direct cost was obtained under strip-tillage system (mean for two cultivars – 1.68). In direct cost structure the highest percentage had seeds material cost. The gross margin was determined as an indicator of economic efficiency. The economic effectiveness of cultivation of two soybean cultivars was evaluated from the perspective of utilizing the basic factors of production – land. Analysis showed that the highest level of gross margin determined on based the difference of production seeds value, direct cost and indirect cost was obtained in soybean cultivation under strip-tillage system. The profitability index was also determined as the relation of production value of soybean seeds to direct costs. The level of the gross margin was more impacted by the level of the obtained yield and the cost of agrotechnical treatments than by the level of other direct costs.

The production of apples is conditioned by many environmental and economic factors, including the cultivated variety, the condition of the plants, the stress factors, demand, supply, costs incurred, prices of fruit and means of production. The aim of the study was to analyse the influence of climatic conditions on the profitability of production of apple trees of the Najdared cultivar. Between 2015 and 2017 an experiment was conducted on apple trees growing on replantation soil and on crop rotation soil in Wielkopolska Region. The analysis of climatic conditions indicated significant differences in air temperatures and precipitation in particular years. When analysing the profitability of the production of apples, it was found that significantly more favourable financial results are obtained on the soil after crop rotation compared to the production on replanted soil. Moreover, the decrease in the profitability of apple production of the trees grown on the replantation soil, especially during unfavourable weather conditions, was greater than the trees grown at the crop rotation soil. On the basis of the research, it was found that in the future, sustainable cultivation of apple trees should be carried out on sites after crop rotation.

Abstract Background Agricultural research and technology adoption play a key role in improving productivity and therefore generate impact on household livelihoods. The push–pull technology developed by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology and collaborators/partners has been recognized for its multiple roles in productivity improvement and income generation. However, the subsequent impacts after its adaptation to drier agro-ecologies have not been ascertained. An ex-post study was conducted to evaluate the impact of the climate-resilient push–pull technology on farmers’ income. Methodology This study was conducted in eight counties in Kenya and Mara region in Tanzania, involving 486 farmers; half were climate-resilient push–pull technology adopters. The study adopted the propensity score matching (PSM) technique in order to correct the self-selection bias in adoption. Results From the results, education of the farmer, household size, Tropical Livestock Unit and group membership positively and significantly influenced adoption. The average treatment effect on the treated was positive for all the matching methods; USD 455.8 for Nearest Neighbor Matching, USD 474.2 for the Kernel Matching and USD 439.1 for the Radius/Caliper Matching. The balancing test for self-selection bias showed that none of the observed covariates was significant after matching. The results demonstrate that adopting climate-resilient push–pull technology has a positive impact on the adopter farmers’ income. Adopter farmers were able to earn much more in terms of gross margin. Conclusion The positive change in income for adopters was attributable to the technology. With increased incomes, farmers were able to access alternative foodstuff, hence had more food security and diversity than those without. Efforts to expand dissemination and adoption of climate-resilient push–pull technology will have positive impacts on adopting families and hence to the economy.

AbstractA field survey was conducted during February–May 2022 in Chhatradev rural municipality and Sitganga municipality with the purpose of analyzing the existing value chain of arabica coffee in Arghakhanchi district of Nepal. A sample size of 110 arabica coffee growers, comprising 55 from each municipality, was selected by using three-stage sampling method for interviews that used a pretested questionnaire. To study the value addition and trading aspects, six collectors and pulper operators and two secondary processors were selected. Descriptive statistics was applied to analyze the data. Input suppliers, producers, collectors, pulper operators, secondary processors, traders, and consumers were identified as key players in the coffee value chain. NTCDB, NARC, CDC, AKC, Coffee Zone, Primary Coffee Cooperatives, Central Coffee Cooperative Union Limited, NCPA, financial institutions, and certification agencies were identified as the enabling environment providers in the value chain. The findings showed that the gross margin of one kg each of fresh cherry production, dry parchment production, green bean production, and coffee powder production was NRs. 26.06, NRs. 92.83, NRs. 107.7, and NRs. 215.06, respectively. Value addition from producers to primary processors was NRs. 109.8 per kg, and the value addition from primary to secondary processors was NRs. 445.6 per kg. Similarly, the value addition from secondary processors to consumers was NRs. 480.58 per kg. The research area’s value chain structure or network was determined to be brief and straightforward. Therefore, it is advised to adopt cutting-edge processing and packaging methods to improve the competitiveness of Nepali coffee in the market.

Sheep production is expanding among small farmers in Southern Uruguay. Currently, Corriedale and Milchschaf are being used, but not Highlander. However, there is lack of experimental information regarding the relative performance of these breeds. We conducted an experiment where these three sheep breeds were run together at the Southern Regional Centre, located in the region in question. Wool, body, reproductive and lamb growth traits were recorded from 2015 to 2019. Results were used as a basis for the calculation of gross margins for each breed, which we calculated for a range of production and economic scenarios. For scenarios based on the results of the present study Highlander was the best performing breed. If it was assumed to be wool-less, it performed even better. In some scenarios Corriedale performed best, especially when the higher wool price it used to enjoy was assumed. However, fetching such a price in the foreseeable future is unlikely. We concluded that in the absence of wool-less sheep that perform in a manner similar to Highlander or Milchschaf in terms of reproduction and lamb growth, Highlander is currently the best option for small farmers in Southern Uruguay. Until now, Milchschaf has been the recommended breed for the region and production system in question. The recommendation should be reviewed, Highlander should be recommended instead, and the performance of wool-less breeds should be investigated. Results could be applicable to other temperate regions in Latin America where similar production systems exist or may be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of the Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists is the property of Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Achieving maximum output with a minimum level of resources has been a major discourse in recent years mostly in Nigeria's seed yam production. Thus, the study evaluated the technical efficiency of the CAY- and NRCRI - seed yam farm and the costs and returns to seed yam production of CAY- and NRCRI - seed yam farms. The study adopted a quantitative research approach. Similarly, a multistage sampling method was used to 283 seed yam farmers. Descriptive statistics, cobb douglas stochastic frontier production function model and gross margin analysis were used for the study. The findings of the study revealed that technical efficiency scores of CAY- (20%) and NRCRI (17%) - seed yam farmers were generally low respectively, Similarly, CAY-Seed yam farmers' farms had a higher gross margin ($199.64) when compared to NRCRI seed yam farmers' farms ($97.29), The study concludes that seed yam technologies did not generally improve the technical efficiency of the seed yam farms. The study recommends that external factors such as seed yam varieties used should be assessed. For instance, farmers' compliance to technologies introduced and the state of health of seed yam farmers should be considered in determining the technical efficiency of farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production structure of farms has a great importance in the context of Romania where there are many mixed farms and most of them have problems of economic viability. Optimization of the production structure is essential in ensuring the viability of farms therefore our study focuses on applying the model of linear programming for the optimization of the production structure. The model was applied to a case study where the optimization was performed from different perspectives by using various economic indicators such as the standard output, gross margin, profit per hectare and production costs. The results have shown that the optimal structure differs depending on the farms' medium and long-term objectives. As a result of the analysis for the proposed scenarios, to increase the efficiency, the use of the category of youth under 1 year old must be abandoned and the cattle for meat category should be developed. Gross margin was found to be the most suitable indicator depending on which the optimal production structure should be modeled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop production constitutes a significant portion of the EU's agricultural output and influences land use decisions. Various elements within the crop production system can significantly impact its outcomes. This paper aims to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of crop rotation, catch crops, and different tillage practices in Latvia by analyzing data from case studies, field trials, and field monitoring to identify the potential for improvement towards a more sustainable utilization of agricultural land. Environmental performance was evaluated by focusing on nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), as it is likely to play a significant role in assessing the environmental suitability of crop production according to the Platform on Sustainable Finance. For economic performance, gross margins were calculated. Crop rotation in Latvia tends to be monotonous, with wheat and oilseed rape dominating over 60% of the cultivated area due to their profitability. The findings of this study indicate that achieving a minimum NUE of 70% is challenging. Crop rotations including oilseed rape, particularly the common wheat–oilseed rape rotation, have an average NUE below the threshold, while proper use of catch crops may increase NUE by 7–9%. The three-year field trials on commercial farms yielded divergent findings about the impact of various tillage practices on NUE and gross margin. However, the field trials conducted on the farm practicing reduced tillage for over ten years show higher NUE compared to ploughing. The advantage of reduced tillage was supported by the obtained results indicating lower costs of agrotechnical operations, including less diesel consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of the Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists is the property of Polish Association of Agricultural & Agribusiness Economists and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Agriculture contributes the most to the economy and provides agro-ecological benefits in the environmentally unsustainable Aral Sea region, but its productivity is steadily dropping. To improve the resilience of farming communities in the region, crop diversification is proposed to enable farmers to grow high-value competitive crops and obtain more stable farm incomes. This study provides long-term, multidisciplinary analyses and strategies for strengthening crop diversification amongst farmers in the Aral Sea region. The study analyzed data provided by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the statistical yearbook of 2000–2020. According to the gross margin study findings, farmers who use diversified cropping systems made considerably higher revenues than farmers relying on mono-cropping practices. This study demonstrates that greater crop diversity contributes to the rational use of natural resources and optimization plans, environmental sustainability, and food security as important natural and socio-economic issues in this region. The study findings suggest that proper crop diversification strategies need to be developed in the Aral Sea region to improve the sustainability of farming systems with enhanced resilience to devastating environmental and climate challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the major staple crops and cash crops in sub-Saharan Africa. Its reputation continues to rise due to the increase in human population and the demand for potatoes is predictable. Potato-produce has a good market reputation and is the major source of household income in developing countries, especially South Africa. However, the increase in potato enterprise comes with its share of challenges that need to be addressed. Smallholder farmers in South Africa are still facing challenges in accessing and participating in lucrative and agro-food value chains, hence their farm returns are very low. There are very few research studies that have assessed the profitability and market performance of potato enterprises. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the profitability of smallholder potato enterprises in the Eastern Cape Province. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 160 potato farmers. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, benefit-cost ratio and marketing margin analysis were used to analyze the data. The study results reveal that the potato enterprise is profitable and contributes to farmers' well-being. Farmers and sellers determined the price of potatoes. The reason for this market conduct is due to the weak characterization of smallholder farming. Performance analysis established that the total gross marketing and profit margins were highest when farmers sold potatoes to consumers and the lowest when farmers sold to middlemen and retailers. The study recommends that policymakers and government invest in improving infrastructure and educational training of farmers in terms of marketing and taking farming as agribusiness. The study further recommends that policymakers and farm organizations must strengthen institutions that take reliable and timely market information; established potato markets close to the farmers, especially those residing in rural areas. There must be a partnership established between research institutes and universities so that they constantly contribute by releasing high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties to advance the production and productivity of the vegetable sector. The study suggests that there is a need for government involvement to create strong market relations between farmers and consumers and to give suitable training to agricultural extension agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are witnessing negative consequences caused by the use of synthetic crop protection products and fertilizers in food production. Interest in the indoor farming of certain plant species has grown significantly. Organic and integrated farming imply the use of natural products, while limiting or completely eliminating the use of synthetic resources. The goal of the research is to study different farming systems in two types of tomatoes and their effect on the variability of certain tomato properties (the number of formed flower trusses, number of fruits per flower truss, and tomato yield). Furthermore, the gross margin of tomato production was calculated. Factor A comprised of different systems of agricultural production: integrated and organic. Factor B comprised two types of tomatoes (cherry and beef). The experiment was set up in a modern indoor space, in controlled microclimate conditions in randomized block design in four replications. The organic system of farming highly significantly affected the studied parameters. The reason for this was the use of a modern growing technology and the approach to the farming itself.

The good agricultural practices (GAP) system is a set of principles applied to on-farm production and post-production processes which reduces harm caused by pesticides to consumers and mitigates environmental damage caused by agricultural activities. This study aims to compare the profitability of farmers trained under GAP compared with conventional practice (non-GAP) in cabbage production in Dalaguete, Cebu, Philippines. The GAP-trained farmers employed the recommended practices such as application of organic inputs, soil and water conservation, minimization of pesticide utilization, and application of optimal amount of fertilizer. These practices were taught during programmed trainings by the non-government organizations and the Department of Agriculture. Profitability was measured using gross margin analysis per hectare and results showed that GAP trained farmers are more profitable (PHP 52,058.09 or USD 1,000.35 per hectare) than the non-GAP trained (PHP 23,684.02 or USD 455.11 per hectare) during dry season. Based on the regression analysis, profitability was significantly affected by educational attainment, adoption to GAP, and availability of irrigation for vegetable production. The study highly recommends to further improve the implementation of the good agricultural practices certification program to the vegetable farmers in Dalaguete, Cebu.

This study examined the effects of unconventional feed on performance characteristics and candi-date gene expression in growing pigs of 3-5months of age. A Total of forty-five (45) growing pigs were randomly allotted into five treatments consisting of whole maize (T1), brewer’s dried grain (T2), cassava peel meal (T3), plantain peel meal (T4), and corn husk meal (T5), at 35% inclusion rate. Per-formance data were collected for 12weeks, while duodenum and liver samples were collected after the experiment for gene expression analysis. Data were analyzed in a completely randomized design. Diets significantly (p< 0.05) affected growth performance with treatment 2 recording the highest average daily weight gain of 0.21±0.02 whilecorn husk meal (T5)had the least 0.11±0.01. Feed efficiency was highest for whole maize (T1) and brewer’s dried grain (T2) (0.10±0.02) and lowest for t5 (0.07±0.17). Cost-benefit analysis were significantly different (p0.05) existed for growth hormone gene and ryanodine receptor1 gene. The results showed commendable gross margin, however, cognizance should be taken in the quantity of brewer’s dried grain fed to pigs since it increased the expression of ryanodine receptor 1 gene that leads to por-cine malignant hypertermia and pale soft exudates pork.

Copyright of Agronomy Science is the property of University of Life Sciences in Lublin and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract. A survey was conducted at Musikot, Western Rukum, Nepal in 2019 to analyze the economic results of vegetable seed production using a well-structured pre-tested questionnaire. The average landholding per household was 8.14 ropani (1 ropani = 0.05 ha), as 33.74% of landholding (equal to 50.36% of the cultivated land) was under vegetable seed production. Vegetable seed production generated 46% of on-farm income equal to 23% of total household income. The share of on-farm activities and off-farm activities in household income was almost equal. 64% of the farming households were food self-sufficient. 39% of the farmers were new to the vegetable seed production enterprise whereas 5% of the farmers were involved from 40 years. 49% of the cost in vegetable seed production was incurred in labor. About eight thousand rupee were sufficient to run a vegetable seed production enterprise per ropani that had made a gross margin of NRs 9,614.36 per ropani. Radish occupied 46.5% of the vegetable seed producing land and generated 53.5% of the vegetable seed revenue. BCR of 2.21 suggested that vegetable seed production enterprise brings NRs 2.21 at the investment of NRs 1. Swiss-chard had the highest price spread (90%) whereas radish and turnip had the lowest (57%). Sensitivity analysis showed that vegetable seed production enterprise was a viable business even after a 20% increase in cost and 20% reduction of revenue simultaneously. Disease infestation and insect attack were two major production problems and price fluctuation and inadequate market information were two major marketing problems faced by vegetable seed producers at Musikot, Western-Rukum, Nepal.

This study aimed to determine the ratooning ability of lowland rice to production management practices. It assessed the profitability of rice ratooning to the abovementioned objectives. The experiment was set out in a split-plot organized in a Randomized Complete Block Design with production management practices as the main plot and cutting heights of ratoon crop as the subplot treatment. Production management practices notably affected all agronomic characteristics, yield, and yield component parameters evaluated except the grain yield. Cutting height remarkably influenced all growth and yield parameters tested except panicle weight. Economic analysis revealed that the improved method achieved a higher gross margin (PHP21,321.60) than the farmer’s practice (PHP15,419.40) because of the former’s high productivity (1.64 t ha-1). A cutting height of 45.0 cm under the improved method obtained the highest gross margin (PHP28,677.00). Moreso, this approach is considered a good measure in adapting to the problematic scenario relative to climate change.

Sorghum is an important cereal crop cultivated by smallholder farmers of Mali, contributing significantly to their food demand and security. The study evaluated different fertilization strategies that combined organic and inorganic fertilizer applications with three sorghum varieties. The experiments were conducted over three cropping seasons (2017–2019) in three sites (Bamako, Bougouni, and Koutiala respectively) within the Sudanian region of Mali. Our results showed a significant effect of season, variety, and fertilization strategies on grain and stalk yields. Grain yield increased by 8–40% in Koutiala, 11–53% in Bougouni, and 44–110% in Bamako while the average stalk yield was above 5000 kg ha−1 with fertilized treatment compared to unfertilized treatment in the three sites. Fadda performed the best variety, mean grain yield was 23% and 42% higher than that of Soumba and Tieble, respectively. Similarly, there was a progressive increase in grain yield with an increasing level of poultry manure (PM) from 0 to 150 g/hill and cattle manure (CM) from 0 to 100 g/hill. However, the application of 100 g/hill of CM and PM plus 3 g/hill of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) increased yield by 8% and 12% respectively compared to only CM or PM treatments. The results further revealed higher yield gain by 51% (Bamako), 57% (Koutiala), and 42% (Bougouni) for T10-[PM (100 g/hill) + Micro-D_DAP (3 g/hill)] equivalent to 73 kgNha−1 than others (T2-T9), but not proportionate to the highest value-cost ratio (VCR). Radar charts used to visualize sustainable intensification (SI) performance in the three domains (productivity, profitability, and environment) showed that the environmental variable has a direct influence on productivity, meanwhile profitability across the strategies ranged from low to moderate value across sites and different fertilizer strategies. Our study, therefore, recommends the use of multiple-choice fertilizer strategies includingT2-CM (50 g/hill)+PM(50 g/hill), T5-DAP-Micro-D (3 g/hill), T6-DAP41:46:00 and T9-PM(50 g/hill) alongside with improved sorghum varieties tested, for higher productivity and profitability across the region.

The aim of the study is to evaluate indicators of economic efficiency of a flock of sheep of the Illede-France breed bred in the Experimental base of the Institute of Animal Science – Kostinbrod in three consecutive years within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy 2014–2020. The economic purpose of the breed is for meat, wool and industrial crossbreeding. The sheep are raised on stable and pasture. The herd is under selection control. The data on the income received and the expenses incurred in raising the animals for the period were provided by the accounting department of the Institute. The economic efficiency of the sheep breeding activity is determined by the indicators of total revenues, production costs (variable and fixed), gross margin, gross margin rate, profit and rate of profitability, calculated on the basis of ewe per year. The following conclusions were drawn from the obtained results. The average total income with subsidies in the amount of BGN 264.44 is obtained from an ewe for the period, and the total income without subsidies is BGN 131.43. In the structure of the income received from realised production, lambs occupy 35% and the share of subsidies is 51%. The total production costs per ewe are BGN 319.34 on average for the period, including variable costs in the amount of BGN 188.04. In the structure of production costs, fed feed occupies 45% and labour costs are 35%. The average amount of concentrated fodder for an ewe is 178 kg per year with a price of BGN 0.37/kg. The obtained gross margin has an increasing tendency and in the third year it is BGN 104.39/ewe. The gross margin rate also increases and at the end of the period is 36.38%. Profit has a negative sign even with subsidies during the study period. The average rate of return is (-12.37%). This shows the strong dependence of the economic results in raising sheep of the Ille-de-France breed on the amount of subsidies received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The group of authors purposesin this article to analyze the benchmarking of budget in the lavender culture. Group of authors developed the economic-financial budgets for the cultivation of lavender, which can be considered an important source of information for benchmarking. The authors used data from the primary records in agricultural holdings, which practice lavender cultivation. The analysis methods used in the article are benchmarking and budgeting of production for comparing the data and economic efficiency. Based on the research and analysis carried out, strategic conclusions were formulated for the sustainable development of the lavender branch, necessary for the implementation by the actors of the value chains in the sector. The final conclusion of the group of authors boils down to: lavender culture is highly profitable, the production processes are fully mechanized and it is a payment with increased resistance to drought (in dry years the quality of the essential oil is higher), which is extremely important in conditions of climate resilience and it is recommended to be practiced for small farmers to diversify incomes in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyse the determinants of Indigenous Leafy Vegetables (ILVs) and their contribution to the household income of rural households in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study covered three district municipalities within the province. Multistage Sampling and Proportional Random Sampling techniques were used to select rural households, with the household heads as the unit of analysis. A sample size of 407 households was considered for the study and a questionnaire was used to collect data. Regression estimates discovered that the amount spent on ILV production and the price of ILV per kg positively influence the income generated from ILVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the agro-environmental and economic effectiveness of strips introduced in a diversified organic vegetable system. Two experiments of three experimental years (2018, 2019, 2020) were carried out within the 4-year rotation of MOnsampolo VEgetable organic Long-Term Experiment (MOVE LTE) in Central Italy to test strip cropping vs pure stand. The crop combinations in the two experiments were faba bean (Vicia faba L.)-tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) and common wheat (Triticum aestivum)-zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.). We determined the productive and economic performances, disease and weed control, nutritional differences and effectiveness in returning carbon to the soil. The two strip cropping systems allowed a better use of resources, enhancing plant biomass and crop residues, particularly for tomato (+24%) and zucchini (+63%). However, the greater plant biomass did not always result in an increase in crop yields. For example, while the wheat-zucchini strip system showed a land equivalent ratio >1 in all three experimental years with a high yield performance in zucchini (+54% of yield), the faba bean-tomato system was more productive in strips only in 2018. On the contrary, this latter system contributed a carbon return >1 in all three experimental years. No significant differences between strip and pure stand systems were observed for fusarium (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici) and oidium (Oidium spp.) diseases on tomato and zucchini crops, respectively, and for weed control. Lastly, greater labor costs associated in both experiments did not affect their profitability (+21% and +319% in faba bean-tomato and wheat-zucchini experiments, respectively). Overall, our findings pointed out that farmers could increase sustainability of their cropping systems with the introduction of a well-designed strip cropping system, which can lead to the reduction of economic risks, greater potential soil carbon and more efficient use of resources on the same land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of unconventional feed on performance characteristics and candidate gene expression in growing pigs of 3-5months of age. A Total of forty-five (45) growing pigs were randomly allotted into five treatments consisted of whole maize (T1), brewer's dried grain (T2), cassava peel meal (T3), plantain peel meal (T4), and corn husk meal (T5), at 35% inclusion rate. Performance data were collected for 12weeks, while duodenum and liver samples were collected after the experiment for gene expression analysis. Data were analyzed in a completely randomized design. Diets significantly (p<0.05) affected growth performance with T2 showing the highest average of daily weight gain at 0.21±0.02; while T5 had the least value. Feed efficiency was highest for T1 and T2 (0.10±0.02) and lowest was T5 (0.07±0.17). Cost-benefit analysis were significantly different (p<0.05) with T4 showing the highest gross margin. Insulin-like growth factor1 and leptin gene were differentially expressed in tissues, while no significant differences (p>0.05) existed for growth hormone gene and ryanodine receptor1 gene. The results showed commendable gross margin, however, cognizance should be taken in the quantity of brewer's dried grain fed to pigs since it increased the expression of ryanodine receptor 1 gene that leads to porcine malignant hypertermia and pale soft exudates pork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water market is one of the modern issues in demand management in face of water scarcity, which is increasingly used in different parts of the world as a tool for optimal allocation of water consumption and transfer of water to consumers with higher final efficiency. Despite the benefits of forming a water market, such markets are not yet developed in developing countries, such as Iran. Accordingly, this study examines the economic impact of water market design on farmers’ livelihood in Iran. The data of this study were collected using a multistage random sampling method from 100 users with water rights in the irrigation network of Ramjerd plain in Fars province. The data were analyzed using positive mathematical programming and scenario making. The results showed that with the formation of the water market, the gross margin of the total lands with irrigation network of Ramjerd plain increased from 2,013.080 billion Rials to 2,194.2200 billion Rials. As a result, the agricultural economic situation of the region experienced an increase of 9%. therefore an appropriate legal and regulatory structure is recommended to create a water market on the lands located within the irrigation networks. HIGHLIGHTS Comprehensive assessment of the effects of water market design on farmers’ gross margin and crop pattern by region.; Application of positive mathematical programming to simulate the effects of water market formation on economic situation of farmers.; In terms of water transfer costs in order to make the effects of water market policy more realistic.;

The results of three years of research concerned the assessment of the profitability of table potato production depending on the control of weed infestation and the use of biostimulants: 1. control object, 2. Avatar 293ZC (clomazone + metribuzin), 3. Avatar 293ZC + biostimulator PlonoStart, 4. Avatar 293ZC + biostimulator Aminoplant, 5. Avatar 293ZC + biostimulator Agro-Sorb-Folium. The research material consisted of potato tubers of the Malaga variety coming from a field experiment carried out in 2018-2020 on medium soil, in a split-plot arrangement, as two-factorial in three replications. Mechanical and chemical treatments increased the marketable yield of tubers by an average of 37.4%, and decreased the by-yield of tubers by an average of 23.9% compared to the control object. The direct surplus per 1 ha of cultivation ranged from PLN 3521.1 in the control object 1. to PLN 11277.9 in object 5. (herbicid + Agro-Sorb Folium).

• How accelerated heifer growth and/or lower replacement rate affect farm margins. • Utilising the heifers' growth potential improves farm short-term profit. • Reduced replacement rate does not affect short-term profit. • Replacement rate is a more efficient mean than growth rate to cut greenhouse gas emissions. • The results may give economic and environmental benefits for the dairy industry. Rearing of replacement heifers makes up a significant part of the total costs in dairy farming. Nevertheless, the average age at first calving for dairy heifers still stays well above 2 years in many countries. This study examined the economic and environmental impacts of increased heifer growth rates and reduced replacement rates on Norwegian dairy farms. The current average growth rate in Norway (baseline scenario) was compared to an accelerated growth rate scenario. Within each of the two growth rate scenarios, we compared three different cow replacement rates. A farm account survey dataset containing physical and economic data on 311 Norwegian farms was clustered into three farm groups: small, medium, and large. To model economic consequences, we used the whole-farm linear programming model ScotFarm. A life cycle analysis model was used to model the environmental impacts of the baseline scenario and an accelerated growth rate scenario on the three farm groups. Accelerated heifer growth rate had a positive effect (14–28%) on farm annual gross margin depending on farm size. While accelerated growth rate resulted in only minor reductions in total emissions at farm level compared to the baseline scenario, reduced replacement rate lowered total farm level emissions by up to 8%, and emissions per unit of output by up to 6%. We conclude that an accelerated heifer growth rate scenario could potentially increase farm gross margin by some 14–28% compared with a baseline growth rate scenario. Reducing the replacement rate would be more efficient to reduce farm−level greenhouse gas emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aimed to establish gross margin for three levels of milk yield/cow/year under the condition of Romania: V1-4,000 kg, V2-5,000 kg and V3-6,000 kg. The technical data were collected from three dairy farms and the economic calculations were based on the EU methodology taking into consideration prices of the year 2011.The following indicators were determined for each level of milk yield: gross product, variable cost and gross margin. The estimates for gross margin/cow were Lei 1,927 for the variant with the smallest milk yield, Lei 2,561 for the variant with the middle yield and Lei 3,454 for the variant with the highest milk yield. As a conclusion, gross product and variable cost were directly influenced by milk yield and the higher the milk yield, the higher gross margin and economic efficiency per cow. In order to increase farm financial performance expressed by gross margin and profit, farmers have to rise milk yield per cow using high productive animals, sufficient and high quality forages and keep production cost, mainly variable cost under control.

A crop–weed simulation model is presented to compare and evaluate integrated weed-management (IWM) strategies. Specifically, the model was parameterized for soybean crops in competition with Euphorbia davidii Subils. We used both weed and crop demographic data surveyed in agronomic fields of the central zone of the Buenos Aires province, Argentina, throughout two crop cycles (2011/2012 and 2013/2014). The proposed model underwent a calibration process and subsequent validation with a 70/30% data split, (N = 37). Two annual-based and one multiannual-based case studies were simulated to demonstrate the performance of the model. Different IWM strategies were compared under both operational and tactical planning horizons through the evaluation of different model outcomes (i.e., crop yield, interspecific competition, economic return, and environmental impact). Our results suggest that the inclusion of cultural management practices could reduce both weed interspecific competition by 46 to 97%, and weed seed production by 40 to 89 %. An increment in both expected crop yield, by 6 to 20%, and annual gross margin, by 44 to 199 USD.ha−1, were obtained in silico for similar levels of environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava production in the Southern region of Nigeria is seen as one of the prominent cultural practices of the natives. The potentials of cassava derivatives and their value chains are enormous in reducing poverty and triggering economic development in the region. Premised on these assertions, the study was designed to analyze the gross margins of cassava farmers and determine factors that affect it in the southern region of Nigeria. In the study, 120 cassava farmers were randomly sampled using structured questionnaire. The descriptive analyses of the data collected revealed that women dominated cassava production in the region. The farmers were moderately educated with an average farming experience of 11.9 years, and average social capital accumulation, age, farm income, gross margin, and farm size of 6.0 years, 44.3 years, N68, 694.17, N29, 793. 57 and 0.59 hectares respectively. The empirical findings revealed that farmers’ age, education, farming experience, social capital, cassava cutting, and farm size were significant positive determinants of cassava farmers’ gross margins while household size, transaction cost and access to farm credit relate negatively. Based on the findings, it is recommended that youth should be encouraged in cassava production as a way to augment the aging cassava population in the region. Also, adult education should be encouraged among cassava farmers in addition to promoting moderate household size among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ekonomika is the property of Society of Economists 'Ekonomika' and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ege Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Ege Universitesi, Ziraat Fakultesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract The Income Stabilization Tool, a risk management scheme introduced within the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2014–2020, could help European Union farmers manage the income risks they face. This study assesses the potential impact of implementing this tool through the maximum level of contribution to the fund which determines an indifference to participate in the fund and its financial sustainability. The study relies on an expected utility approach and assesses the variability of loss ratios over time using a sample of Italian hazelnut farms as a case study. The participation depends on the level of farmers' contributions and their degree of risk aversion. However, the CAP public support makes the scheme financially sustainable.

The aim of the study was to compare the productive and economic effects of different production intensities of spring wheat. The study was based on the results of a two-year (2015-2016) field study, conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Osiny, belonging to the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Pulawy. Spring wheat cultivars (Arabella and KWS Torridon) were grown using intensive and integrated technologies. The technologies studied differed in the level of mineral fertilization and chemical plant protection. The cultivation of spring wheat of the KWS Torridon cultivar according to intensive technology, as compared with cultivation under conditions of integrated technology, resulted in a significant increase in grain yield by 10.6%, respectively. On the other hand, no effect of production technology was found on the yield of the Arabella cultivar. The research showed that the technology intensity level, determined by inputs of production means, determined the structure of direct costs and profitability of spring wheat cultivars. The compared technologies ensured the profitability of spring wheat grain production. The most advantageous index of direct profitability was recorded for the Arabella cultivar grown under integrated technology.

Crop production constitutes a significant portion of the EU’s agricultural output and influences land use decisions. Various elements within the crop production system can significantly impact its outcomes. This paper aims to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of crop rotation, catch crops, and different tillage practices in Latvia by analyzing data from case studies, field trials, and field monitoring to identify the potential for improvement towards a more sustainable utilization of agricultural land. Environmental performance was evaluated by focusing on nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), as it is likely to play a significant role in assessing the environmental suitability of crop production according to the Platform on Sustainable Finance. For economic performance, gross margins were calculated. Crop rotation in Latvia tends to be monotonous, with wheat and oilseed rape dominating over 60% of the cultivated area due to their profitability. The findings of this study indicate that achieving a minimum NUE of 70% is challenging. Crop rotations including oilseed rape, particularly the common wheat–oilseed rape rotation, have an average NUE below the threshold, while proper use of catch crops may increase NUE by 7–9%. The three-year field trials on commercial farms yielded divergent findings about the impact of various tillage practices on NUE and gross margin. However, the field trials conducted on the farm practicing reduced tillage for over ten years show higher NUE compared to ploughing. The advantage of reduced tillage was supported by the obtained results indicating lower costs of agrotechnical operations, including less diesel consumption.

A survey was conducted at Musikot, Western Rukum, Nepal in 2019 to analyze the economic results of vegetable seed production using a well-structured pre-tested questionnaire. The average landholding per household was 8.14 ropani (1 ropani = 0.05 ha), as 33.74% of landholding (equal to 50.36% of the cultivated land) was under vegetable seed production. Vegetable seed production generated 46% of on-farm income equal to 23% of total household income. The share of on-farm activities and off-farm activities in household income was almost equal. 64% of the farming households were food self-sufficient. 39% of the farmers were new to the vegetable seed production enterprise whereas 5% of the farmers were involved from 40 years. 49% of the cost in vegetable seed production was incurred in labor. About eight thousand rupee were sufficient to run a vegetable seed production enterprise per ropani that had made a gross margin of NRs 9,614.36 per ropani. Radish occupied 46.5% of the vegetable seed producing land and generated 53.5% of the vegetable seed revenue. BCR of 2.21 suggested that vegetable seed production enterprise brings NRs 2.21 at the investment of NRs 1. Swiss-chard had the highest price spread (90%) whereas radish and turnip had the lowest (57%). Sensitivity analysis showed that vegetable seed production enterprise was a viable business even after a 20% increase in cost and 20% reduction of revenue simultaneously. Disease infestation and insect attack were two major production problems and price fluctuation and inadequate market information were two major marketing problems faced by vegetable seed producers at Musikot, Western-Rukum, Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed the actors along the Cashew value chain and their influence in making the income derived from cashew sustainable. Primary data for the study were collected from 210 actors using a structured questionnaire. The gross margin and the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) were used to determine the revenue margin and market competitiveness (concentration) among the various actors along the cashew value chain. The results revealed that most of the actors were male and had between 6-10 years of experience in cashew production. Also, the actors’ resort to loans in financing their operations was an interest rate of 24%. Producers had the lowest net margin on revenue of 16.95%, and they indicated that fluctuation in pricing and bushfires were challenges faced in production. Purchasing clerks pointed out that inadequate storage facilities and the high cost of transportation were their challenges. Moreover, processors indicated that lack of government support, high interest on loans, and low demand for processed cashew nuts were their challenges. According to cashew nuts exporters, their significant challenges are high cost of transport and high cost of storage facilities. Furthermore, the Herfindahl-Hirschman index showed that the cashew industry in the study area was highly concentrated. The study recommended that government efforts should be focused on developing a cashew Development Board to enhance marketing and price regulation.