Farming is an amazing agricultural business whereby crops, such as corn, rice, and wheat, are grown and sold. This practice also involves raising animals, which can be sold as food.
But what exactly is commercial agriculture?
Also known as commercial farming, this guide will explore everything that you need to know about this business practice. This includes the benefits and characteristics of commercial agriculture.
So if you are wondering whether or not commercial farming is right for you, this guide will tell you everything that you need to know!
What's Ahead...
What Is Commercial Agriculture?
Commercial agriculture refers to the technique of growing crops and rearing livestock in order to make a profit. After all, the meat and crops can be sold.
In addition, commercial farming is also known as agribusiness, which is a combination of the words “agriculture” and “business”. This word defines any form of industry relating to the world of agriculture.
It’s worth bearing in mind that commercial farming will require a substantial amount of capital.
If you are interested in the commercial agriculture industry, you will need to invest a lot of money. For instance, you will need to invest in land and technology.
To make a lot of money, the scale of the farm will need to be large, which demands a large investment.
Modern commercial farming focuses heavily on efficiency. This enables commercial farmers to make the most money possible from their farming practices.
The Characteristics Of Commercial Agriculture
For a farm to be considered commercial agriculture, it must fulfill certain characteristics. If these characteristics have not been met, this variety of agriculture may be better suited to a different category.
Here are the main characteristics that define commercial agriculture:
- It focuses on profit and making money. This is one of the key ways in which it differs from subsistence farming (more on that later)!
- Crops and livestock are kept in large numbers. This is because commercial agriculture relies on large-scale production.
- Typically, commercial farming is carried out throughout the year.
- Livestock and crops are sold for money. If these goods are not produced to make a profit, then this would not be commercial agriculture.
Commercial Agriculture VS Subsistence Farming
Subsistence farming is another style of farming that often gets confused with commercial agriculture. But the truth is that these two forms of farming are completely different.
Essentially, subsistence farming is the practice of growing crops and raising animals merely for one’s personal use. Crops will be consumed by the farmer, their families, and anybody else in the nearby area.
As a result, subsistence farmers will not make a profit from the crops and livestock. This is because they are not selling them.
Of course, this contrasts massively with commercial farming, given that the purpose of this technique is to raise money. Moreover, farmers will not consume their own goods in commercial agriculture.
Another key difference between these practices is that different techniques will be used.
In subsistence farming, there is little point in mass-producing goods given that it’s primarily used for personal consumption.
Consequently, farm workers will need to be employed when using commercial farming, as the work would be too much to do alone.
Family members should be sufficient to cover the workload when you are using subsistence farming.
Whereas fertilizers and technological farming methods may be used in a commercial setting, they are rarely utilized in subsistence farming. This is because there is simply no use for them.
The Advantages Of Commercial Agriculture
There are numerous advantages and disadvantages to this farming practice. It’s important to weigh these pros and cons before investing in commercial agriculture.
Here are some of the main advantages of this practice:
- It will generate local sources of employment. As a result, you can contribute to your local economy and give jobs to the people who live in your local area. This will stimulate local economic growth.
- Due to increased industrialization, farming methods are incredibly efficient. As a result, the cost of production can be lower than with other farming techniques. Costs will be particularly low if you invest in high-tech farming techniques, such as plows. Though these products have high upfront costs, they will be worth it in the long run.
- Agriculture products can be cheaper. These commodities can be purchased for much lower prices. As a result, people can purchase framing commodities for lower prices.
- Your products can also be used in the local community. For instance, the vegetables that you grow may be utilized by local restaurants.
- This form of framing can increase the power supply to rural and suburban areas. This is because commercial agriculture relies heavily on electricity and technology.
The Disadvantages Of Commercial Farming
Though there are plenty of advantages to commercial farming, there are also some disadvantages that you must take into consideration, such as:
- As mentioned, you will need to spend a lot of money on commercial farming. This will include purchasing land. Farming land is becoming increasingly expensive due to the high levels of demand.
- It can be difficult to find enough land for farming, especially if you want to raise a large number of animals.
- Animal cruelty can occur if animals are kept in poor conditions, such as cages.
- Thanks to the use of fertilizers and pesticides, commercial farmers can contribute to pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Different Types Of Commercial Agriculture?
Commercial agriculture comes in numerous forms, such as:
- Plantation farming: this focuses on just one crop.
- Livestock ranching: this is the practice of raising livestock.
- Dairy farming: this is all about the product of milk.
- Grain farming: grains like wheat, corn, and rice are the focus of this variety.
Is There Profit In Agriculture?
Agriculture can be incredibly profitable. It is often considered one of the most profitable industries.
Final Thoughts
Commercial agriculture can be an incredible business venture. With any luck, you are now an expert in commercial farming.
Though this practice can be massively profitable, you will need to decide whether or not commercial agriculture is worth it. After all, it can be massively costly!
Paul Martinez is the founder of BendingDestiny.com. He is an expert in the areas of finance, real estate, and eCommerce.
Join him on BendingDestiny.com to learn how to improve your financial life and excel in these areas. Before starting this blog, Paul built from scratch and managed two multi-million dollar companies. One in the real estate sector and one in the eCommerce sector.