The relationship between intermediary actors in the aquaculture supply chain at Tam Giang Lagoon, Central Vietnam

Abstract

Aquaculture's profitability depends on a whole linkage chain involving all stages of producing, distributing and commercializing the product to reach final consumption. The efficiency of a supply chain is affected by the types of relationships among actors. This study aims to explore the nature of intermediary actors’ relationship in the aquaculture supply chain and the determinants of this relationship. Tam Giang Lagoon, Thua Thien Hue province, Central Vietnam, was selected as a case study. Fifty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect primary information, while secondary information was collected from statistical data. The relationship between collectors and their buyer group plays a vital role in the product flow, and each collector has one wholesaler and retailer group. Their long-term business relationship is based on trust and informal transactions. Fair commercial treatment and willingness to lend without interest have created a binding relationship.