GIS Analysis of Market Distribution and Economic Access in Imo State

Periodic markets serve as the primary channel for agricultural commodity exchange across rural communities in South East Nigeria. This study analyses the spatial distribution of periodic markets in Imo State and evaluates their economic accessibility using GIS tools. Market location data compiled through field surveys and secondary sources are geocoded and mapped against road network and population layers. Service area analysis using network-based catchment delineation estimates the number of communities within defined travel time thresholds of 30 and 60 minutes by road and footpath. The Huff model of spatial interaction is used to estimate market patronage probability for communities served by multiple competing markets. Results reveal significant market access deficits in the northern LGAs of Oguta, Ohaji-Egbema, and Oru West, where communities are separated from the nearest market by inadequate road infrastructure. The study recommends establishing new periodic market sites in underserved zones and rehabilitating feeder roads along high-demand corridors. Keywords: market distribution, GIS, economic access, Imo State, spatial interaction