Effects of Fuel Price Fluctuations on Agricultural Production, Marketing, and Coping Strategies among Rural Farming Households (Published)
Fuel price fluctuations have become a major concern for agricultural production and marketing, particularly among rural farming households that rely heavily on fuel for farm operations and transportation. This study examined the effects of fuel price fluctuations on agricultural production, marketing, and coping strategies among rural farming households in Ondo East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 rural farmers, and primary data were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that fuel price fluctuations significantly affected agricultural marketing and household welfare, with decreased standard of living (42.5%), higher cost of farm inputs (33.3%), and reduced profits (28.3%) being the most reported effects. Fuel price increases also raised production costs associated with farm operations, labour, and transportation of produce. Farmers adopted coping strategies such as reducing fuel consumption and purchasing fuel-efficient equipment, although these strategies were limited. Regression results showed that age, sex, religion, household size, and annual income significantly influenced the effects of fuel price fluctuations on rural farming households. The study recommends improved rural infrastructure, promotion of energy-efficient technologies, and strengthened farmer support systems to mitigate the effects of fuel price volatility on agricultural activities.
Keywords: Agricultural Production, Coping Strategies, Fuel price fluctuations, Nigeria, agricultural marketing, rural farming households