Trading modes of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) by small producers in Central Benin

Résumé

The cashew tree occupies an important place in the Beninese economy. In recent years, the sector has been facing several challenges, among which trading represents a significant concern. The objective of this study is to understand the determinants of the trading methods used by small cashew producers in central Benin. In this context, a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 254 cashew farms, selected in two municipalities. The Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) allowed for the characterization of sales methods using the FactoMineR and factoextra packages. The small-scale cashew producers based on various factors were categorized and the determinants of the choice of trading modes were identified using logistic regression method. The producers were grouped according to four trading modes : individual sale, group sale, warehouse sale and mixed sale. These modes were practiced respectively by 32%, 27%, 19%, and 22% of producers. Producers in the municipality of Savalou engage more in individual sales (54% compared to 46%) and sales at the store (SIPI) (53% compared to 47%). Individual sales were chosen based on the distance between the village and the nearest market, contact with extension services, the area cultivated with cashew trees, the number of cashew plantations, and the unit selling price of cashews. The choice of group sales was linked to variables such as wholesaler, sources of internal and external advice, access to credit, and education. The area cultivated with cashews, the unit selling price of cashews, and the semi-wholesaler variable were the determinants of sales to individual shops. The pursuit of a secondary activity, the need to purchase inputs, the need for construction, and the need to purchase equipment were the determinants of mixed sales. These results provided essential foundations for a better understanding of cashew trading in Central Benin, with a view to reorganizing the sector.

Classification JEL : Q13

Paper type: Empirical Research