Assessing Yield and Productivity Gaps in Tunisian Maize Cropping System
2025
Mohamed Dhia Eddine Hammami | Asma Lasram | Zayneb Kthiri | Sameh Boukef | Walid Hamada | Pedro Revilla | Chahine Karmous
Maize production is deficient in arid countries such as Tunisia. To assess maize yield and estimate productivity gaps among Tunisian farmers in consideration of climate change challenges, a survey was conducted that included 50 farms in 10 governorates, focusing on agronomic practices, seed type adoptions, and socioeconomic parameters. The yield gaps related to water resources and farmers’ technical efficiency represented 26.8% and 32.9%, respectively, while for water productivity, the gaps related to water resources and technical efficiency were 32.2% and 31.3%, respectively. Hybrid varieties were among the 25% yield increase compared to local landraces. Farmers retain local landraces mainly for their food quality. Favorable climatic conditions in the northern regions of Tunisia are among the reasons for higher yield compared to the central and southern areas, which registered a yield reduction of 9.2% and 17%, respectively. The Tobit analyses showed that sowing rate, geographic location, type of variety, and fertilization are the most significant factors contributing to technical inefficiencies. For further increases in maize yield in Tunisia, improving agricultural practices, water management, and using high-yielding varieties are essential.
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