Analysis of Round Potato Marketing in Tanzania: The Case of Rungwe District, Tanzania
Nyunza Godfrey, Mwakaje Agnes E.G

Abstract
Round potato is one of the most traded food commodities around the world yet; producers in developing countries have remained poor. The objective of this study was to find out the relative benefits obtained by players in the potato marketing chain in Tanzania with the focus of Rungwe District and investigate factors that affect the crop profitability. A sample of 120 farmers was chosen randomly for interviews. There was also a discussion with focus groups and key informants. Findings showed that farmers earned only 8% of the total gross margin (GM) compared to 30.9% for the wholesalers. Through regression analysis it was revealed that selling volumes (p<0.0.05) and selling price (p< 0.01) had significant impact on the crop profitability. Although education and land size were not significant, they had positive relationship with GM. Farmers’ GM could be enhanced through improved education, productivity, bargaining power and access to market information.

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