Analysis of value chain of the artisanal sea urchin fishery of Baja California, México

The value chain analysis provides a comprehensive perspective about fisheries production and key actors involved. This information is relevant for small-scale fisheries and highlights their socioeconomic contribution. Mexico is ranks fifth among the sea urchin exporting countries. In Baja California, Mexico, this fishery is one of the main small-scale fisheries in due to its high commercial value as well as its valuable source of employment and social benefits to communities. However, there is a lack study about commercial process. For an understanding of the socioeconomic dynamics surrounding the activity, this paper aim was analyzed the value chain of the sea urchin fishery through a structural mapping, identified the key-actors and the links among them. Data come from official records and interviews with producers, process plant administrators, and government staff. We identified three nodes and seven production routes and their price variations along the route, through which producers release the captured sea urchin roes to reach the market. Through the value chain, women participation in post-capture activities and their role as leaders in fishing organizations stands out. Relationships within and between nodes primarily informal with limitations for negotiation. Collaboration agreements between producers and the government need to be permanent and promote cooperation among all stakeholders to improve management strategies. Finally, it is suggested that government actions be focused on ensuring compliance with fishing regulations, promoting capability building, and encouraging financial investment to enhance the sustainability of the sea urchin fishery.