Read the passage below carefully:
In the high-altitude tea-growing region of the Mambilla Plateau, smallholder farmers historically relied on cooperative shade-tree agroforestry to regulate microclimate temperature and soil moisture. However, following the introduction of sun-tolerant clonal tea varieties, agricultural extension agents advised the systematic clearing of native canopy trees to maximize photosynthetic exposure and short-term yield. Although crude harvests initially rose significantly, the canopy removal exposed the topsoil to severe desiccation and organic matter depletion during dry seasons. Consequently, farmers cultivating the unshaded clones became dependent on costly synthetic fertilizers and micro-irrigation systems to maintain soil fertility and hydration. By 2024, smallholders who had eradicated their shade canopy suffered lower net profit margins than those maintaining partial agroforestry buffers, as the spiraling expenditure on artificial inputs surpassed the revenues generated by higher raw yield.
Statement: Based on the passage, the primary cause of reduced net profit margins among farmers adopting sun-tolerant clonal tea was an inherent failure of the crop to produce higher physical yields.
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