Value Chain Dynamics And Farmer Constraints In Citrus Cultivation In Udayapur District Of Nepal

This study analyzes the citrus value chain in Udayapur district, Nepal, with a focus on production practices, marketing systems, and constraints faced by farmers. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 114 value chain actors, including producers, intermediaries, input suppliers, and retailers, through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and secondary sources. Descriptive statistics, value chain mapping, and Garrett’s Ranking Technique were applied to assess socio-economic characteristics, marketing channels, and problem prioritization. Results revealed that citrus farming is dominated by smallholder producers relying on traditional methods, with mandarins as the major crop. Five marketing channels were identified, ranging from direct sales to consumers to multi-tiered systems involving traders, wholesalers, and processors. While direct marketing offers higher profit shares to farmers, multi-tiered channels expand market reach but reduce margins. The most critical problems, according to Garrett’s ranking, were pest and disease incidence, lack of quality saplings, and inadequate technical assistance. Additional challenges include limited irrigation facilities, transportation constraints, price fluctuations, and insufficient storage infrastructure. Policy recommendations emphasize integrated pest management, quality planting material supply, strengthened extension services, irrigation development, improved transportation and market access, price stabilization, and investment in post-harvest and processing facilities. Addressing these constraints through coordinated action among farmers, cooperatives, government agencies, and private actors can enhance productivity, profitability, and sustainability in Nepal’s citrus sector.