AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

ANALYSIS OF PRICE SPREAD AND SPATIAL INTEGRATION AMONG CATFISH VALUE CHAIN ACTORS IN SOUTH-SOUTH, NIGERIA

Author:  Nnamuko, I. A, Njoku, M. E, Simonyan, J. B, Oti, O. G, and Udokure, U. J.

Abstract
The study examined the determinants of net income of catfish value chain actors in South-South, Nigeria. Specifically, the study determined the costs, returns, and marketing efficiency of catfish value chain actors and estimated the determinants of net income of catfish value chain actors. The study population comprised all producers (60), processors (60), and marketers (60) of catfish in the South- South States of Nigeria. Giving a sample size of 180 respondents which was selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, a price spread formula, and a correlation coefficient. Results showed that Catfish value chain actors were middleaged, educated, experienced, and obtained credit mainly from families/friends. Catfish marketers recorded the highest price spread, implying that they sell their products at a significantly higher price than what they paid for them. The strongest correlation was observed between marketer prices in urban and rural markets (0.8770), implying that price changes in one market influenced prices in other markets. Therefore, there was efficient market operation with little to no price distortion in the study area. The study recommended that government and non-governmental organizations should train catfish producers and processors to improve their marketing strategies and increase their price spreads and profitability.