A Bio-Economic Model for Improving Irrigated Durum Wheat Performance and Regional Profits under Mediterranean Conditions

Houda Mazhoud, Fraj Chemak, Hatem Belhouchette and Roza Chenoune
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Houda Mazhoud: Rural Economy Laboratory (LR16INRAT07), National Institute for Agricultural Research of Tunisia (INRAT), University of Carthage, 1004 El Menzah 1, Tunis 1001, Tunisia
Fraj Chemak: Rural Economy Laboratory (LR16INRAT07), National Institute for Agricultural Research of Tunisia (INRAT), University of Carthage, 1004 El Menzah 1, Tunis 1001, Tunisia
Hatem Belhouchette: CIHEAM-IAMM, UMR ABSys, 34093 Montpellier, France
Roza Chenoune: CIHEAM-IAMM, University of Montpellier, 34093 Montpellier, France

Agriculture, 2022, vol. 12, issue 5, 1-25

Abstract: Irrigated durum wheat is a staple food crop that occupies important areas in Tunisia. However, its performance remains weak, with an average national yield of no more than 3.6 tons ha −1 and low profitability. Overall, on-farm wheat production will need to increase considerably to meet future demand and ensure minimum profitability for farmers. To this end, this study aims to identify the main levers for improving durum wheat crop performance. For this purpose, we have developed a regional bio-economic model by linking a biophysical model (CROPSYST) with an economic optimization model (MORBIT). CROPSYST was used to establish a database with a view to determining the relationships between farming practices, durum wheat yields, and water productivity within a context of high climate variability. The database was then integrated into a MORBIT model that analyzed the effects of farming practices on durum wheat performance and regional profits. Three scenarios related to irrigation control and the increase in durum wheat prices were developed. The results showed that reconciling irrigation practices with economic policies is the best alternative to improve durum wheat performance and increase profits at a regional level.

Keywords: durum wheat; profit; performance; bio-economic model; Tunisia (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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