Farm profitability and determinants of sweet potato production in Punjab, Pakistan

Farm profitability and sweet potato production determinants

Abstract

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is an important and profitable crop in Pakistan due to its nutritional value, adaptability, and growing market demand. Despite this potential, limited economic assessments exist for Punjab. This study evaluates the economics of sweet potato cultivation in Sheikhupura District using primary data collected from 139 respondents through a field survey. Economic analysis was utilized to interpret the factors influencing production and profitability. The objectives were to estimate the cost of production, assess profitability, and identify measures to improve sweet potato production. Results show that farmers had an average of nine years of education and 22 years of farming experience, with 58.1% engaged full-time in agriculture. The average farm size was 5.32 acres, while the mean sweet potato area was 1.87 acres. Canal irrigation was the dominant water source (71%), and most farmers depended on rented tractors (71%). The total cost of cultivation was Rs. 442,851 per acre. Average output was 101.58 bags per acre (55 kg each), generating a gross income of Rs. 315,881. Net income amounted to Rs. 212,996 with land rent and Rs. 251,329 without land rent, confirming that sweet potato production is economically viable and profitable. Major constraints included high input and machinery costs, price fluctuations, and collusion among commission agents. The study recommends improving access to affordable inputs, strengthening farmers’ knowledge of modern production practices, and enhancing government-led price monitoring to support sustainable sweet potato production in Punjab.