Ehsan Mokaram Zahed, Roya Eshraghi Samani, Bita Rahimibadr, Alireza Noshary,
Volume 15, Issue 55 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to analyze and prioritize the effects of supportive facilities and marketing strategies on the economic performance of rural livestock farming units in Khorasan Razavi Province, Iran.
Methods: The research employed the Analytic Network Process (ANP), a multi-criteria decision-making approach that captures interrelationships and interdependencies among criteria and sub-criteria. The conceptual framework consisted of seven main criteria and twenty-five sub-criteria designed to comprehensively identify the determinants of livestock farms’ economic performance. Data were collected using a pairwise-comparison questionnaire completed by 237 livestock farmers across various counties in Khorasan Razavi Province. Following the construction of pairwise comparison matrices, the weights of criteria and sub-criteria were calculated, and the final analysis was conducted using Super Decisions software.
Results: The results revealed that the three most influential criteria affecting the economic performance of rural livestock farms were supportive facilities, economic costs, and marketing strategies. At the sub-criteria level, livestock feed costs received the highest priority weight, indicating the substantial financial burden imposed by feed expenses on livestock producers. Market access and the amount of loans received ranked second and third, respectively, highlighting the critical role of effective market participation and adequate financial resources in ensuring the sustainability and expansion of livestock farming activities. Other significant sub-criteria included livestock product insurance and the establishment of cooperatives, both of which contribute substantially to risk reduction and improved marketing performance.
Conclusions: Enhancing the economic performance of rural livestock farms requires a comprehensive policy approach focused on optimizing support mechanisms, reducing input costs, strengthening marketing infrastructure, and expanding insurance coverage. The findings provide a valuable scientific basis for agricultural policymakers and decision-makers to formulate targeted, evidence-based, and development-oriented strategies for the sustainable advancement of the livestock sector in rural areas.
