Can producer groups improve technical efficiency among artisanal shrimpers in Nigeria? A study accounting for observed and unobserved selectivity

Abstract It is widely recognized that participation in producer groups advantageous for smallholders who must deal with complex production and marketing constraints dynamic business environments. However, available data on this process are scarce the fishery sector, while existing evidence limited by smallholders’ potential self-selection into groups. This study, therefore, examined selectivity-corrected role of fisher improving shrimpers’ technological technical efficiency. Using latest primary from artisan shrimpers Nigeria, we applied propensity score matching Greene’s selectivity stochastic frontier model to control selection bias both observable unobservable factors. Empirical results our metafrontier approach show efficiency scores members tend be overestimated if not properly controlled. efficiencies productivities were significantly higher regardless how biases corrected, implying positively related increases capture Further findings suggest current artisanal “production-oriented” as they ensure access vital shrimping inputs at lower costs. With declining returns scale members, study concludes without public private support collective action membership may lead significant improvement productivity. The discusses several recommendations can further encouraged developed among fishers.