Marketing Of Rice in Nigeria (A Case Study Of Ebonyi State)

Abstract

This project studies the problems and prospects of marketing rice in Nigeria, a case study of Abakaliki, Ebonyi Statc. The following were the objective of the study. To determine the continual fluctuation in the price of rice in the market was due to supply problem. To determine the effect of transportation cost 0n the total cost of distribution rice in the state. To determine the extent of application of marketing mix strategies in the marketing of rice. To determine whether the locally produced rice can compete effectively with the foreign rice. To recommend ways Of improving the marketing of rice in Nigeria. The data for the research was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources included both interview and survey. Questionnaire were designed and issued to both distributors and consumers of rice products. Multi-choice and close ended approach were used in designing the questionnaires. The sample sizes, were scientifically determined and consequently producers and distributed in the major cities of the states. The data collected were analysed in tabular form. Test of proportion and chi-square were used it1 testing using the hypothesis. The hypothesis were tested at both 5% and 1 % levels of 'The prevailing price fluctuation rice market stems mostly from supply problem. Locally produced rice could compete effectively with foreign rice. Its majors competitive advantages are test and price. 'The selling concept of marketing prevail in rice industry. The modern marketing concept was still lacking hence no conscious effort was being made to adopt the marketing strategies. Transportation cost contributes substantial to the total cost of marketing greater part of the cost bone by rice consumers at the market could be relieved through proper transportation management. 5. Most of the problems encountered by the produces (rice farmers and processors) were infrastructural and technical problems. If therefore adequate attention was given to the problems, they could be solved and the supply of rice improved. 6 Rice as. a staple food in Nigeria today is a universal product which could be cultivated in various area of the country. The industry therefore processes greatly potential for increased production and .market development. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the research and the researchers vast knowledge of the theory and practice of marketing, the following conclusions were made? 1. That the fluctuation in price of rice were due to supply problems. 2. That transportation cost greatly affects the price of rice in the market . 3. That marketing mix strategies are not consciously practiced or adopted by rice marketers in Ebonyi State. 4. That locally produced rice can compete effectively with foreign rice.