Poultry farm efficiency in Togo: what impact on competitiveness?

Abstract

This article focuses on the variation in competitiveness between different poultry farms in a liberalized economic context. An analysis of the efficiency of each farm can shed light on ways of improving the sector's competitiveness. The aim is to assess the efficiency of poultry farms in Togo. Using data from 405 randomly selected producers in three agro-ecological zones, the study evaluates the efficiency of modern table egg producers and traditional poultry producers through stochastic profit models. The results reveal significant inefficiency between farms, mainly due to differences in farming practices rather than random variability. Average profitability levels give way to a significant improvement in the profitability of poultry production in Togo, strengthening its competitiveness. Key factors influencing profit efficiency are gender, poultry training, access to credit, participation in agricultural projects, distance to supply locations and access to extension services. The article suggests investing in training, alternative financing and input distribution to improve access for small-scale producers, thereby promoting profit efficiency and the growth of livestock farming, a crucial sector for rural development and poverty reduction.