The Role of Low-Cost Technology for Increasing Agricultural Productivity in the ECWA Region

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of agricultural labor productivity in the ECWA region. It highlights the basic elements of agricultural labor productivity and the scope for improvement. The chapter discusses the meaning and dimensions of low-cost technologies and the prospects of low-cost technologies in increasing agricultural labor productivity. Most countries in the ECWA region enjoy favorable man–land ratios. Thus, comparatively speaking, the maximization rule would lead the ECWA countries to maximize output per unit of labor in contrast to countries with unfavorable man–land ratios. Therefore, the concept of agricultural labor productivity is especially significant for the ECWA countries. Labor productivity is a direct reflection of agricultural income. Subsequently, improvement of labor productivity should raise agricultural income and contribute to social justice and income equality.