Carrot production-structure and profitability-cost analysis: the case of Konya Province, Turkey

Abstract

Carrot (Daucus carrota L.) is produced in Turkey not only for fresh consumption but also used as candy and juice industries. It is valued as food mainly because it is rich in alpha and beta carotene. There are a few studies on the economics of carrot production. Konya is the most important carrot production area and takes the first position in ranking in Turkey. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine production cost and profitability of carrot production in Konya province, Turkey. The data was obtained from 73 carrot farm enterprises with the help of a well-structured questionnaire. The survey applied to selected enterprises randomly. Data covered the 2011 production season. The average production cost of carrot was US$ 0.150 per kg, the sales price was US$ 0.201 per kg and profit margin was US$ 0.051 per kg in carrot producer enterprises. Relative profit was calculated as 1.34. Gross profit and absolute profit for enterprises were determined US$ 7838.62 and US$ 4249.46 per hectare respectively. According to the Tobit model results; such variables as groups of carrots cultivated area, yield, taking precautions in pesticide used, pesticide dose, marketing, household size were found to have a significant effect on profitability of carrot farms.