ABSTRACT

The study examined the marketing of cocoa in Abia State, using lkwuano Local Government Area as a case study. Both primary and secondary data i.'vere used in accomplishing the study. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires, which were randomly given to cocoa producers and marketers. Secondary data were sourced from texts, journals and other research works. The data realized were analyzed using, frequency tables, percentages, gross margin, and marketing margin . The following findings were made, the cocoa farmers in the study area have positive gross margin, which indicated that the enterprise is a profitable one. The marketing margin was found to be 53%. The problems that militated against this work in tlie slate, ranged from high cost at marketing instability in price government policies etc. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made, government should ensure adequate provision of transportation, and make those policies that will encourage more cocoa production in the state. Government should create cocoa marketing department within the ministry of commerce, trade and industry to prescribe appropriate rules and regulations, including price regulation, policy to guide and regulate the cocoa marketing system and ensure effectiveness and efficiency. The producers should also he encouraged to join co-operative societies, this is likely to he gainful now that cocoa marketing board is not functioning. This will help solve problem o inadequate funding.