Development of agricultural cost of production system: Malawi’s experience

Statistically sound and reliable agricultural information is necessary for proper policy formulation and design of agricultural programmes that can transform the economy of the country. In particular, having agriculture production estimates alone is not enough for informed decision‑making, thus, understanding the fundamental aspects of agricultural profitability, such as cost of production, adds value to the design of agricultural programme that can yield positive impact to the economy. In pursuit of sustainable agriculture, a clear and comprehensive understanding of the costs involved in the production of crops, livestock, fisheries and forestry is deemed necessary. Accurate estimates of the costs of primary agricultural production is vital not only for farmers but also policymakers, researchers, investors and all other industry stakeholders.

The design of the technical assistance on Agricultural Cost of Production statistics system is very critical in achieving the desired outcomes. Tailor‑made bilateral technical assistance on Agricultural Cost of Production statistics system approach is very important in addressing the problem in the local context of the farming systems. More importantly, integration of Computer‑Assisted Personal Interviewing in the development of Agricultural Cost of Production statistics system is very complimentary and provides multiple benefits resulting in a complete package for a robust and sustainable Agricultural Cost of Production statistics system.

Mwanaleza, E. J. (2025). Development of agricultural cost of production system: Malawi’s experience. Statéco, 119.