Model to Estimate Determinants of an Area Harvested in Cocoa Production Systems

Abstract

The stakeholders of the cocoa sector should be introduced with determinants that influence an area of cocoa harvest. Objective of the study is to identify the determinants of a harvested area in small cocoa production units in Huila. A correlational method, cross section, and quantitative approach was used with data from the last National agricultural census. Results of the study revealed that major area does not use credit, advice and irrigation increase the area while the organic fertilization is positive. Those displaced by violence have less harvest area and the primary and secondary sectors are positively associated with an increase in area. It can be concluded that the determinants of harvested area identified in this study exhibit a low management behavior in the agronomic practices of cocoa producers that limit the expansion of the harvested area in Huila. This aspect affects the medium and long-term economic sustainability of this agricultural activity. Therefore, continuous training and education of the producers are essential in order to improve this problematic situation.