Towards High-Value Markets
An Analysis of Determinants of Smallholder Vegetable Farmers’ Participation in Manokwari, West Papua
Keywords:
high-value markets, smallholder farmers, market participation, vegetable farming, cooperatives, West PapuaAbstract
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyze the key factors that determine the participation of smallholder vegetable farmers in high-value markets, compared to traditional market channels. The study addresses a critical knowledge gap in understanding how socio-economic and institutional factors influence market decisions among farmers in a remote region of Indonesia.
Design/methods/approach – Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires with 15 smallholder vegetable farmers in the Manokwari region of West Papua. The study employed binary logistic regression to examine determinants of market participation and bivariate correlation analysis to identify the relationship between income and market choice.
Findings – The study finds that age, education level, size of cultivated land, and membership in farmer groups or cooperatives significantly influence smallholder farmers’ participation in high-value markets. Moreover, income from vegetable farming is positively correlated with market participation, indicating that farmers accessing high-value markets tend to achieve better financial outcomes.
Research implications/limitations – The research is geographically limited to the Manokwari region, which may affect the generalizability of findings. Additionally, the study does not include institutional or behavioral variables that may also impact market participation. These limitations suggest the need for broader and more integrated approaches in future research.
Originality/value – This study provides new empirical insights from an underrepresented region, emphasizing the importance of empowering farmer groups and encouraging technical innovation to support smallholder integration into profitable market systems. The findings offer valuable input for policymakers and development programs targeting inclusive agricultural growth in remote and developing areas.
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