Determining the market share of improved common bean varieties traded in selected markets in Malawi
2007
R. Muthoni | M. Barungi | R. Chirwa
This paper reviews the market share of improved bean varieties in Malawi. An assessment of the market share of old improved varieties and new improved varieties that are preferred by the consumers is discussed. The seasonal and regional variations among commonly traded varieties are identified, and alongside the consumers of commonly traded bean varieties. A comparison of the average buying and selling prices of improved and local bean varieties and observed seasonal variations is also carried out.<br /><br />A total of 28 bean varieties were traded - of these 10 are dominant across the regions and were commonly bought by households, local traders, schools, hospitals, and exporters. The average market share (in terms of quantity purchased by traders) of improved common bean varieties was 80% while that of local bean varieties was 20%. Newly improved common bean varieties accounted for 12% of the 80% share of improved bean. Bean varieties dominated the seasons and regions on the basis of their availability in the market. The varieties also attracted high and low prices on the basis of their percentage volume in the market. Availability and sales corresponded to the harvest and hunger seasons, with trade volumes lowest during the harvest seasons in April to May marketing seasons and highest in hunger seasons of September and October. The average selling prices of both improved and local bean varieties exceeded the corresponding buying prices, indicating that traders make profits from the sell of both categories of bean varieties. Basing on prices alone, the findings imply that traders benefit more from the sale of improved varieties as opposed to local variety sales.
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