Abstract:
This study attempted to analyze factors affecting to select new brand of herbicides by rice farmers in Sri Lanka. A pre tested
structured questionnaire was used for the marketing survey for the farmer. Study area was Hambantota, Anuradhapura,
Kurunegala and Polonnaruwa districts in Sri Lanka. Data were collected from the three group of farmers which was done
base upon farmers' awareness and use of newly introduce grass killing herbicide brands as, 'aware and used of newly
introduced grass killing herbicides (Gl)', 'aware about newly introduce grass killing herbicide but did not adopt to use it
(G2)' and unaware and did not use the newly introduced grass killing herbicides (G3)'. Snowball sampling methods were
used to select the samples for three group. Total sample was 168 (Gl - 55, G2 51 and G3 - 62). Innovative and progressive
farmers have illustrated high willingness than others to apply new herbicides. Gain awareness and experience about new
product, influence of fellow farmers, influence of the field staff, overcome the weakness of other products and impact of
advertising were the major factors which influenced to purchase new herbicides. They have higher expectations from the new
product; viz., to gain experience and to overcome weakness of the existing herbicides (innovative farmers / early adopters).
Influence from peers and extension personnel also found to have played a major role in farmers decision making. Dealers
and field-demonstrations have played a major role in making farmers aware about new herbicides.
