An Econometric Study to Estimate the Most Important Factors Affecting the Fish Demand Function in Libya During the Period (1990-2013).

Abstract

The aim of this research was to identify the reality and development of production and consumption as well as the average per capita share, the self-sufficiency ratio and the food gap of fish in Libya during the period 1990 to 2013, as well as the most important factors affecting the demand function of fish in Libya. The research problem summarized that the required quantity of fish is greater than the quantity offered or available for consumption, and therefore a deficit in the trade balance of this commodity. One of the main findings of the research is that the quantities of fish produced in Libya during the period of study have shown an upward trend with a positive annual growth rate of 7.3%. It was also found that the quantity available for fish consumption in Libya during the same period, with a general trend and a positive annual growth rate of about 7.2%. The average per capita fish growth was fluctuating during the study period and at a positive annual growth rate of about 2.27%

The elasticity coefficients of the independent variables indicate that there is an inverse relationship between the local price of fish and the quantity required. A 10% increase in the domestic price leads to a 15% reduction in the required quantity, while the per capita income elasticity coefficient indicates a positive relationship between income The increase in per capita income by 10% leads to an increase in the required quantity by 3.8%. The elasticity coefficient of average meat prices indicates that there is a positive relationship between the average price of red meat and the quantity required of it. Average prices of red meat 10% leads to an increase in the quantity of fish by 4%. The study concludes that the most important factors determining the quantity of fish required in Libya during the study period are per capita income and the price of local fish and average prices of red meat

One of the most important recommendations of the research is to establish a system to protect consumer prices during the different periods of the year, to open the fields of investment in the fish sector through the granting of loans and facilities, attention to marketing operations by providing refrigerated transport and suitable places. Protecting beaches from landfill and pollution. Find new traps and maintain old ones.