An Economic Study of the Possibility of Developing Productive Services For Agricultural Credit Cooperatives in Behera Governorate

Cooperatives are among the most widespread sectors in Egypt, providing numerous productive services to the agricultural sector. The problem addressed in this research lies in the shortcomings of agricultural credit cooperatives in fulfilling their role in providing productive services to the agricultural sector. The study aims to examine the current situation of agricultural credit cooperatives in Beheira Governorate, to shed light on the obstacles preventing them from efficiently performing their role in advancing the agricultural sector, and to explore the potential for improving their economic and social performance. The research relies on descriptive and quantitative statistical analysis methods to present data, draw conclusions, and discuss findings. The total number of credit cooperatives in Beheira Governorate is approximately 404 cooperatives. The study randomly selected the districts of Abu Hummus and Edko as a sample, including a total of 21 cooperatives. The average total surplus achieved by the research sample was around 135,000 EGP, while the average total value of board members’ bonuses was about 1,900 EGP. The number of board members with an active role was 104 out of 151, representing 69% of the total. The total capital of cooperative projects established and managed by agricultural credit cooperatives amounted to approximately 306,400 EGP. As a result of the credit cooperatives’ efforts in establishing demonstration fields for wheat and planting it on raised beds, wheat production increased by 20%, equivalent to an additional 188.7 thousand tons on the same area. Furthermore, water usage decreased by 25%, saving approximately 162.7 million