Valoración económica de la producción de maíz duro (Zea mays) del cantón Quevedo, año 2016.

Abstract

In the present study the economic value of the yellow corn production of the canton Quevedo was determined during 2016. For this target, the yellow corn production system of the Quevedo canton was characterized based on information obtained through surveys, interviews and observations. Among the main features are: average area per producer: 6.33 ha, common planting date: January, producer’s age average: 49, most used seed: DK-7088, average density: 49,155 plants ha-1, planted area: 2,909 ha and average yield: 4.25 t ha-1. A cost-effectiveness ratio of 1.5 was obtained; therefore, it was concluded that there is a benefit and therefore a positive economic valuation. In addition, it was evidenced that a yellow corn producer can obtain an average profitability of $688.96 ha-1. The high investment cost, weakened marketing channels and lack of financing for production were identified as critical variables. Regarding the marketing problem, the strategy stablished was the implementation of collection centers, which are strategically located according to the geographic location of the areas with the highest corn production, among others. It is recommended to use the results obtained as an instrument for making public-private decisions, when establishing programs and actions that promote the increase of crop productivity.