Value Chain Analysis For Rubber Tapping In Rubber Research Institute Of Nigeria Akwete Ukwa East L.G.A Abia State

ABSTRACT

This study value Chain Analysis for Rubber Tapping was carried out in the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria Akwete, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State Nigeria. Thirty rubber farmers were selected purposively from the study area. Primary data were collected using a well structured questionnaire. Statistical techniques such as frequency distribution tables and multiple regression techniques were used in analyzing the data. The results of the study showed that rubber tapping was dominated by male, which accounted for 73.8% of respondents. Majority of the respondents had primary education, large household size, used personal saving for tapping operations, and higher farming experience. The major problems faced by rubber farmers were high transportation cost, low pricing, lack of storage facilities, awareness of rubber tapping technology, access to credit and access to technology. From findings, the recommendations proposed were the creation of awareness about rubber tapping technology, provision of access to credit at low interest rate, and encouraging education of the farmers.