Demand Analysis of Selected Fruits and Vegetables in Oman

Abstract

Consumer behavior and prospective changes in demand of food product have a significant impact on production and distribution decisions. Consumer responsiveness to changes in prices, income and other demand determinants is very important to production and market decision-makers. The present study estimates demand responses for selected fruits and vegetables in Oman using consumer aggregated national data. The main objective is to generate information needed for making public as well as private decisions. Results indicate that most fruit and vegetable consumers respond to price, and income changes in the expected manner. Responses are different from one commodity to another depending on its nature and importance in the consumer's diet habits. In a few cases income is not a significant determinant of the demand. Moreover, many fruits and vegetables have shown a relationship of substitution and complementary consistent with Omani diet. These results are useful in farmers and distributers to allow them to adjust their production and marketing services according to the consumer’s response.

Profitability Analysis of Selected Farms in the Batinah Region of Oman

“…Previous research in this field includes analysis of the demand for, and marketing of, vegetables in Oman (Omezzine et al, 1998); studies on some aspects of salinity and fertilization of potatoes and tomatoes (Rehmatullah, 1996;Satti et al, 1995). However, studies that consider the profitability of both crops and farming systems are missing.…”

Determination of Sugar and Mineral Contents in some Omani Fruits

“…Per capita fruit and vegetable consumption in Oman has increased since the 1970's as a result of the remarkable economic and social development that accelerated income growth and caused a substantial change in the diet of the population. The consumption of fruits in 1995 reached more than 90 kg per capita (Omezzine, et al 1998). This change is brought about by the increase in consumer awareness towards low fat, high mineral vitamin sources of food; fruits and vegetable are usually low in calories and fat and have no cholesterol making them healthy additions to our diets.…”