Rice Marketing Practices in Tunga, Leyte, Philippines
Keywords:
Rice production, marketing strategies, rice local traders, descriptive statistics, PhilippinesAbstract
This study describes and assesses rice marketing practices in Tunga, Leyte, Philippines, identifying associated problems and proposed solutions. Data were collected from 110 randomly sampled rice farmers using a descriptive research design and a researcher-developed questionnaire. The respondents were predominantly male (58%), married (95%), and middle-aged, with 49% aged 46-59. Educational backgrounds varied, with many having completed elementary (15%), high school (26%), or college (15%) levels.
The marketing practices analysis revealed that farmers commonly sell directly to local traders, recognizing the value of adding quality to their produce. However, significant challenges hinder their success. Key problems include a severe lack of capital for essential harvesting and threshing operations and the market power of traders who dictate and control prices, disadvantaging the farmers.
To address these issues and improve the rice marketing system, the study recommends several strategies. These include promoting fair trade practices to ensure equitable pricing, investing in transportation infrastructure, and establishing grain reserves. Furthermore, providing farmers with training in proper storage and drying techniques and enhancing their access to timely market information are suggested as vital steps toward increasing their income and ensuring the financial stability of the local rice industry.
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