Potential of non-traditional crops in the international trade: a case study of vegetables in Tanzania
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Date
2008
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study investigates the potential for Tanzania’s nontraditional exports in the international trade drawing experience from the vegetable sector. Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index is used to explore whether Tanzania has a comparative advantage over Kenya as an empirical measure of competitiveness. Vegetable export data covering annual observations for the 2003-2006 period compiled by the Tanzania Revenue Authority and those published in EUROSTAT official website were used. The study reveals that Tanzania vegetable exports have a very huge potential for growth in the near future and contribute to raising farmers’ incomes and reduce poverty, if the trade environment is improved. Empirical analysis of the competitiveness of the Tanzania’s vegetable exports in EU market against Kenya in this study reveals that Kenya is more competitive than Tanzania in terms general vegetable sector exports. However, Tanzania has a comparative advantage over Kenya in exports of leek, sweet corn and peas. The study reinforces previous results and sheds light on possible policy options which include; development of the transport infrastructure, reducing the costs of doing business and creation of the environment in which local exporters can compete with those of neighboring countries.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library
Keywords
Non-traditional crops, International trade, Vegetables, Tanzania
Citation
Ngomuo, N. A (2008) Potential of non-traditional crops in the international trade: a case study of vegetables in Tanzania, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam