Factor analysis of the challenges influencing sugar beet producers in Harsin city

Because of world population increase and lack of appropriate food production, it is necessary that the developing countries make fundamental changes in their traditional production systems through utilizing new agronomical methods, farm management principles, and proper marketing. This study aimed to analyze factors involved in sugar beet production challenges in Harsin city, Kermanshah province. The statistical population included all sugar beet producers in Harsin city (N = 423). Based on Cochran formula, sample size was determined to 117. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential (regression and factor analysis) statistical methods. Factors extracted from factor analysis included problems that sugar beet producers face under the title of pest and disease, crop marketing, land preparation and seed planting, crop husbandry, and harvest. Regression analysis results showed that, 73% of the dependent variable variation was explained by six variables including the rate of technology usage, access to information resources, education, access to production inputs, knowledge, and ownership of machines. Finally, facilitating access to new technology and holding educational and training courses for sugar beet producers is recommended.