But this will lead, without any doubt. The cost of fuel for tractors and pickups is a considerable item. Even at S 601 per scheme, the figure is high compared with estimates of a maximum of S 500 per scheme quoted by the MFC, especially when it is remembered that nearly a quarter of these schemes did not have their own tractor. The cost represents the use of about 1,450 gallons of fuel at the official price. It is known that with fuel shortages owners are often prepared to pay black-market prices.
Fuel is purchased in fourgallon tins and stocked, if possible, for the beginning of the season.
Calculated from various data provided by the sources listed in the footnote to section 3.8. above. Further items of some importance in variable costs are sacks and strings for tying the sacks. Dura is handled entirely in sacks and the grower has to purchase these each year. A final item. 3.8.3 Production Income Yields of aura in the entire region varied widely and showed a tendency to go down over a number of years.