Comparative Economic Advantage of Crop Production in Rwanda

The study evaluated the crop cultivation practices that currently prevail in Rwanda and recommends interventions to improve yields and reduce post-harvest losses. The recommended agricultural practices are expected to reduce the unit cost of production and increase farmers’ income. The study attempts to analyze comparative economic advantage of Rwandan crops as well as the financial profitability of these crops for farmers. The comparative economic advantage is assessed using the economic cost of inputs and economic value of outputs which is frequently different from market prices due to various distortions such as taxes and subsidies. The financial income from cultivation of crops is, in turn, estimated using market prices. The current agricultural policies toward achieving food self-sufficiency are evaluated.