Research Information System
Applied Fruit Science, vol.68, no.2, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study aims to conduct an economic analysis and evaluate the marketing structure of apple production among farms engaged in apple cultivation in Isparta province of Türkiye. Primary data were collected through face-to-face surveys conducted with 78 farmers in the Eğirdir district, which accounts for nearly half (46.61%) of Isparta’s apple production. The data used in this study are from the 2023/2024 production season. The stratified sampling method was employed to distribute the sampled farms according to the size of their apple production areas. The research results revealed that the average production cost of apples was $ 10,435.88 per hectare, of which 67.85% was composed of variable costs and 32.15% consisted of fixed costs. Pesticide expenses accounted for the largest share of variable costs (26.11%), while land rent represented the most substantial fixed cost item (12.41%). The average apple cultivation area was determined as 3.04 ha, yielding an average production of 5910.05 kg per hectare, with an average selling price of $ 0.34 per kilogram. Accordingly, the gross production value was calculated as $ 20,242.45 per hectare, gross profit as $ 29,771.75, and net profit as $ 9806.57. The relative profitability of apple production was determined to be 1.94. To reduce rising water costs associated with declining water resources, investments in modern, water-efficient irrigation technologies should be promoted. In addition, integrated pest management practices should be encouraged to lower pesticide costs. Strengthening producer cooperatives and marketing organizations is also recommended in order to enhance farmers’ bargaining power.