The economics of agriculture in Gozo

Abstract

The Economics of Agriculture is studied in the context of past, present and future situations. An overview of the historical development in Gozitan Agriculture is given in the context of the various geographical factors. A detailed analysis regarding the agricultural factors of production is conducted so as to identify recent trends. This analysis covers the 25 years from independence till the last Agricultural Census (1983). A questionnaire was distributed to farmers with the aim of collecting information about conditions of work. Besides conditions of work, there is also information about crops raised and animal husbandry. Traditional mixed farming is also studied in the light of the ever increasing number of specialized farms. Reasons for the failure of Co-operatives to make headway in agriculture, locally, are also studied. Surely agricultural Co-operatives are needed for more development in farming . In view of full EC membership, new challenges regarding competition should be faced in both local and export markets. To be able to meet these future challenges, the farmers should work hard in cooperation with each other and with the help of Government intervention, in the financial, legal and educational aspects of agriculture. In this framework, several suggestions from our side., and also from the experts interviewed, are proposed.