Agricultural Technology and Agricultural Policy in Egypt: 1976-77 and 1981-82

摘要

Translog cost functions were estimated for rice, wheat, corn, and cotton using 1982 growing season data from ten East Delta villages. Results were compared with translog rice cost estimates using 1976-77 data; the comparison allowed for an analysis of technological changes that had occurred between the two periods. Among the data findings: (1) a marked increase in fertilizer use and in machinery ownership (tractors) and (2) a substantial increase in the price of hired labor, but no associated decline in its use. Analysis of the empirical estimates had certain implications for agricultural policy.