PRESS ROOM
7/6/2024
Sucre Plains and Central Magdalena present the best conditions for cassava production
The regions of Sucre Plains and Central Magdalena stand out for their high yields per hectare and lower unit costs.
Bogotá D. C., (@Minagricultura, @UPRAColombia, @claudialili76). Understanding production costs in the agricultural sector is essential for various stakeholders, including government entities, sector-specific organizations, and businesses. UPRA has developed cost structures that facilitate informed decision-making, thereby enhancing sector competitiveness.
In this context, the cost production bulletin for cassava was developed for the second semester of 2023; a crop of great national importance present in all departments of Colombia. Specifically, three key regions were analyzed: Central Magdalena, Ariari in Meta, and Sucre Plains, which together represent 25.6% of the national cassava production.
In this context, the cost production bulletin for cassava was developed for the second semester of 2023; a crop of great national importance present in all departments of Colombia. Specifically, three key regions were analyzed: Central Magdalena, Ariari in Meta, and Sucre Plains, which together represent 25.6% of the national cassava production.
"The results of the analysis indicate that the regions of Sucre Plains and Central Magdalena present the best conditions in terms of competitiveness, in yields per hectare and lower unit costs. These conclusions are based on a detailed evaluation of direct and indirect costs associated with cassava production in these areas," explained Claudia Cortés, Director of UPRA.
In terms of direct costs, labor and agricultural machinery are the most significant items in all three regions, with a higher share in Central Magdalena (82.4%) and Sucre Plains (69.8%). These activities include land preparation, cultural practices, and harvesting. On the other hand, the Ariari region in Meta stands out for its intensive use of inputs (such as soil and foliar fertilizers), accounting for 10.5% and 7.1%, respectively.
The analysis also reveals differences in indirect costs, with the Ariari region in Meta reporting expenses on fuels, oils, and transportation, while these costs are not included in the other two regions due to specific management and production destination practices.
Comparing unit costs and yields, it is concluded that Sucre Plains and Central Magdalena offer the best conditions for cassava production, combining high yields with low unit costs.
This analysis provides a solid foundation for improving efficiency and competitiveness in cassava production in Colombia, benefiting producers and contributing to the development of the country's agro-industrial sector.
