The blue crab (Callinectes spp.) value chain in Laguna (Santa Catarina, Brazil) under the perspective of Local Agri-Food Systems

Abstract

The small-scale fishery value chain faces challenges worldwide, from pre-catch, catch, and post-catch to consumption. Regarding the blue crab (Callinectes spp.), an important resource for traditional communities in Laguna (Santa Catarina, Brazil), it is no different. This study analyzes the blue crab value chain in Laguna from the perspective of Local Agri-Food Systems (LAS), a governance proposition that mobilizes the Sustainable Territorial Development approach. Primary data was collected through (i) direct observation and (ii) 20 semi-structured interviews with small-scale fishers and local traders. Secondary data was obtained through documentary research, including a review of the legislation on the health and commercialization aspects of artisanal Products of Animal Origin (PAO) and an analysis of data from the Santa Catarina State Fishing Activity Monitoring Project (PMAP-SC). The interviews were organized using the ranking technique and analyzed by the actors' taxonomy. The results suggest little interaction between public managers (regulatory, development, research, and extension agencies), fishers, and end consumers. The main difficulties include financial issues, lack of technical support, and devaluation of the artisanal product and the profession. The systems' feasibility requires mechanisms to encourage management, including financial independence, increased family income, economic incentives, and the value of local products. The balance between society and the community will define the territorial economy, considering the importance of historicity and collective memory in organizing local production systems. Reciprocity is fundamental, as is the construction of collective knowledge and the ability of the blue crab value chain actors to learn together.