DETERMINANTS OF MARKET STRUCTURE AND PRICING STRATEGIES IN THE AGROCHEMICAL SECTOR OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

This study analyzed the market structure of agrochemicals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, with emphasis on the socio-economic characteristics of agrochemical marketers and the concentration of market participants. The study was motivated by the increasing demand for agrochemicals to improve agricultural productivity amid limited empirical evidence on the organization and competitiveness of the agrochemical market in the state. Existing literature indicates that market structure influences pricing, product availability, market efficiency, and the quality of agrochemical products. However, studies focusing on Nasarawa State remain scarce, creating a knowledge gap for policymakers and other stakeholders. The findings of this study are expected to provide insights into the characteristics and concentration of agrochemical marketers, thereby contributing to a better understanding of market competitiveness and informing policies aimed at improving market efficiency, strengthening regulation, and protecting farmers' interests in Nasarawa State, Nigeria