Effects of Covid-19 pandemic on agri-food production and farmers

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic significantly affected agriculture and various industries. This study was conducted to determine the effects of Covid-19 pandemic on agri-food production. The data for this descriptive study were collected from those working in agriculture industry in Konya province of Turkey in between 15/12/2020 and 30/12/2020. These data were collected by a survey form prepared by the researches in line with the existing literature. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test was used to analyze the data. In the research area, it was also found out that median educational status was secondary school graduation and generally the incomes exceeded the expenses. 1.3% of the participants were diagnosed with Covid-19. Increase in production costs, price instability and difficulties in working and recruiting workers and shrinkage in markets were frequently mentioned by those dealing with dry farming, irrigated farming and vegetable and fruit growing respectively. As income level increased, the level of those worrying about the harvest and sales, experiencing difficulties in agricultural products and food and having problems for supply of production materials also increased. Governments should take measures to take the sting out of the pandemic and they should develop policies/strategies supporting sustainability of agricultural production.