CoÛts et valeur ajoutée dans la commercialisation des perches de teck au Sud-Bénin

We analysed the costs, the added value and its components in the marketing of teak poles in southern Benin to identify areas where interventions can improve efficiency in the timber marketing system. Overall, 107 traders of teak poles were surveyed in five cities, based on cluster sampling, and information on their businesses was collected by using a standardised questionnaire. The traders included various categories according to their marketing functions. The structure of marketing costs showed that transport and rental payments to civil servants are the main items on which significant efficiency gains can be made. Teak pole marketing is a wealth creating activity, as it generates a positive added value. The results suggest that any improvement of the transport infrastructure in rural areas will benefit market efficiency. Reforms in the forestry sector are essential to tackle rent-seeking behaviour.