Determinants of market margins among okra traders

In the tropics, okra is an important vegetable crop and its production is a viable livelihood activity; however, several factors affect its marketing and margins derivable thereof. Therefore, this study analyzed the determinants of market margins among okra traders in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Primary data collected via multistage sampling were analyzed using descriptive statistics, market performance and regression analysis. The results revealed that the estimated market margin and market efficiency index were ₦1900/bag (100kg) and 0.35, respectively. Channel 4 (27%) had the highest percentage of commodity sales volume. The coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.826; hence, 83% variation in the market margin was accounted for by variables in the regression model. Moreover, coefficients of the variables including age (0.873), education (0.696), market experience (0.571), cost price (–0.598), quantity sold (0.576), marketing cost (–0.72) and income level (0.98) were significant determinants of okra market margins. They identified constraints affecting okra marketing in the study area. This study recommends the provision of incentives, policy adoption to mitigate income inequality and improve market performance; regulation of commodity prices, agent exploitation and marketing costs; adoption of modern communication tools and technologies, market channel diversification; provision of market infrastructures and interventions

Profitability of rice production in different production systems in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Profitability of rice production in different production systems in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was evaluated. Rice is critical for food security in Nigeria, hence, farmers need to make appropriate choices of rice production systems to optimize production and ensure an adequate domestic supply. This study used 2015 survey data from rice farming households. Rice farmers in swamp, lowland and upland rice production systems showed variability in profit. Swamp production systems had the highest return per hectare (29.37%) followed by lowland production systems (20.10%) and upland production systems (13.03%). Poor access to production credit and climate change were constraints to rice production in the area. Rice production using the swamp production system is profitable and would ensure increased production and higher returns to the farmers. It is recommended that farmers should form cooperative groups to enable them to pool resources together to boost their production