Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology

Background: Women’s participation in agribusiness contributes to employment generation, household income and enterprise development. However, women entrepreneurs often encounter financial, technical, production and marketing constraints that may affect the effective operation and sustainability of their enterprises. Understanding these constraints at the local level is important for identifying the major difficulties experienced by women engaged in agribusiness and for informing appropriate support measures.

Aim: The present study aims to analyse the major constraints faced by women entrepreneurs in agribusiness in Thrissur District.

Study Design: A descriptive, ex-post facto design was adopted.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kerala, India, among women entrepreneurs from October 2025 to February 2026.

Methodology: The study covered 40 women entrepreneurs, with 10 respondents selected from each of Chalakudy, Mukundapuram, Thalappilly and Thrissur taluks. The sampling frame comprised 350 eligible women entrepreneurs registered under SSI/WIP units and engaged in agribusiness. Data were collected using an interview schedule. Garrett’s ranking technique was applied to convert respondents’ rankings into scores and determine the relative importance of the reported constraints.

Results: Lack of subsidy ranked first (70), followed by non-availability of bank loans in second place (50) and high interest rates in third place (30). Lack of skills in handling and maintenance ranked first (78), followed by perishability in second place (66), non-availability of inputs and labour in third place (57), lack of technical know-how in fourth place (50), shortage of working capital in fifth place (43), electricity shortage in sixth place (34), and lack of related skills in seventh place (22). Non-availability of raw materials ranked first (75), followed by non-availability of equipment in second place (60), high labour costs in third place (50), non-availability of skilled workers in fourth place (40), and labour management in fifth place (25). Fluctuation in demand ranked first (80), followed by low profit in second place (68), storage problems due to perishable products in third place (63), lack of knowledge about marketing strategies in fourth place (58), problems with middlemen in fifth place (50), lack of knowledge about appropriate product markets and customers in sixth place (43), existing competition in seventh place (33), and transportation in eighth place (15).

Conclusion: The findings identify prominent constraints across financial, technical, production and marketing dimensions, with lack of subsidy, lack of handling and maintenance skills, non-availability of raw materials and fluctuation in demand ranking highest in their respective categories. The findings highlight the need for better financial assistance, skill development, production support and effective marketing facilities to improve the performance and sustainability of women-led agribusinesses.