TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF GRAIN MAIZE PRODUCTION: A CASE STUDY IN TÜRKİYE

The purpose of this study is to examine the input usage levels of grain maize farmers in Izmir province, T & uuml;rkiye and to determine the efficiency of input utilization. The study was conducted in four districts of Izmir province, where maize farming is most prevalent. Data were collected through face-to-face surveys with 141 farmers, selected using a stratified random sampling method. The study employs Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to assess input usage efficiency. 33.33% of farms were fully efficient under CRS, and 43.26% were fully efficient under VRS. The average efficiency scores ranged between 0.86 and 0.99. The average technical efficiency (CRS) was determined as 0.90. Results indicate that the technical efficiency scores vary across farm sizes, with small farms being relatively more efficient in input use. The results highlight inefficiencies in seed, fertilizer, and irrigation usage, suggesting opportunities for optimization. Policy recommendations include promoting soil testing, increasing awareness of input management, and improving extension services. Enhancing efficiency in maize production could reduce costs, increase profitability, and improve sustainability in Turkish agriculture.