Economics of Smoked Fish Marketing in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State

Abstract

This study investigated the costs, profitability, marketing margin and constraints associated with smoked fish marketing in Akwa Ibom State. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and purposive sampling technique was adopted in selecting forty (40) respondents. Descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and budgeting approach (gross margin and marketing margin) were used to analyze the data. Weighted mean was used to rank the constraints faced by the smoked fish marketers in the study area. Results showed that 32.50% of the smoked fish marketers were of the age range 30 – 39years, and 100% of the marketers were females. The major constraints faced by these marketers were: high product price, homogeneity of product, poor/inadequate access roads to the central collecting market. From the analysis, the average total cost was N50,029.40/ marketer/week; average total revenue was N54,770.00/marketer/week. The marketing margin was 47%. This indicates that smoked fish marketing is profitable in the study area because of the weekly gain. If calculated perineum, it will exceed the annual percentage revenue, estimated as 23%. In order to enhance its productivity, there is therefore need to regulate the activities of the fish trade union, form smoked fish traders cooperative associations and also construct or upgrade market infrastructures and rural feeder roads in the study area. This will add to an increase in the profitability of smoked fish marketing in Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State.