Abstract

AYALA-GARAY, Alma V. et al. Profitability analysis of maize production in the Tulancingo region, Hidalgo, Mexico. agric. soc. desarro [online]. 2013, vol.10, n.4, pp.381-395. ISSN 1870-5472.

The objective of this study was to carry out a profitability analysis of maize produciton in the Development District of Tulancingo, Hidalgo. A survey directed at 55 producers was performed from May to September 2010, taking into consideration quantitative and qualitative variables. Three categories of producers were identified based on their yield: category I : yield ≤ 1 t ha^-1 (24 % of the producers); category II: from 1.1 to 2 t ha^-1 (72%); and category III: ≥ 2.1 (4%). Some of the problems faced were: drought (96 % mentioned that the lack of water limits production); reduced use of improved seed (28 % use it); deficient phytosanitary control (only 4 % do it); 24 % apply herbicides, and 60 % fertilizes, showing a low technological level. The latter is the result of the lack of technical advice and training. The average costs of production were $7290.19 per ha, with a yield of 1.87 t ha^-1, which allows obtaining profits of $83.15 per ha. Producers from category III have a profit of $1067.80 per ton, while those from category I show losses of $2416.50, which is explained by the low yields.

Keywords : production costs; profit; productivity.