Economic cost of non-adoption of Bt-cotton in West Africa: with special reference to Mali. (11th March 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cabanilla, Liborio S.; Abdoulaye, Tahirou; Sanders, John H.
• Is Part Of: International journal of biotechnology. Volume 7:Number 1-3(2005)
• Page Start: 46
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2005-03-11
• Subjects: Bt-cotton -- West Africa -- yield advantage -- cost advantage -- ex-ante analysis -- agricultural biotechnology -- developing countries -- Mali -- pesticide reduction; Biotechnology -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Biotechnology -- Research -- Periodicals; 338.47660605
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-6048

Abstract

A major public policy issue in West Africa is whether or not, and how, to introduce Bt-cotton in the region. The implications of non-adoption may be more significant than, for example, the issues often raised concerning cotton subsidies in advanced countries. This paper provides estimates of the potential benefits from Bt-cotton if introduced in West Africa. Our analysis shows significant farm-level benefits. Aggregate benefits depend on adoption rate and yield advantage of Bt-cotton. These range from a low of US$7 million to a high of US$67 million in Mali; US$4 million to US$41 million in Burkina Faso; US$5 million to US$52 million in Benin; US$4 million to US$38 million in Cote d'Ivoire; and, US$1 million to US$7 million in Senegal. The reduction in insecticide use is an added environmental benefit. Non-adoption of Bt-cotton in the region will ultimately result in non-competitiveness in the world market.