Cost analysis and productive strategies in small-scale dairy systems in the period 2000-2012 [Análisis de costos y estrategias productivas en la lechería de pequeña escala en el periodo 2000-2012]

An accounting analysis was performed on the evolution and performance of productive, economic and marketing strategies implemented by small-scale dairy farmers in the peri-urban area of Texcoco, Mexico. Economic and production records for 1 023 lactation were obtained in two periods, 2000 and 2012. The general cost methodology was used to establish the accounting structures of these production systems, and the re-adjustment of values financial methodology through calculating deflated values based on data from the Mexican National Index of Consumer Prices. Evidence is presented that farmers in Stratum I defined as strategies not hiring temporary or permanent labour, as well as independence in the purchase of inputs (this Stratum produces 90%25 of its inputs). Stratum II reduced 3 of the main 4 items of the total production cost (feeding, medicines and breeding) and increased the mean profit per litre of milk ($ 2.00 MXN) through selling strategies. Stratum III defined as their strategies increased productivity (59%25), a reduction in the cost (29%25) of the main input (feed) and taking advantage of their productive scale to obtain a higher receipt of revenues for the farm.

VIVO