VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS OF LOCAL BLUE CRAB FISHERMAN IN CHONBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

            This research aimed to investigate the value chain of local blue crab fishing in Chonburi province, study the conditions and problems of the fishing in Chonburi, and propose strategies to improve the value and efficiency of the local market's value chain. The study employed a mixed research approach, utilizing a quota sampling method for collecting data through questionnaires from Chonburi individuals engaged in the local blue crab fishing business and three officials who were involved with the local blue crab fishermen in Chonburi since the beginning of the process. Both groups were those fishermen living in 5 districts of Chonburi.

            The findings indicated the following problems: environmental problems affecting the decreasing number of blue crab resources, reliance on intermediaries for crab sales, rising costs of blue crab capture, problems enhancing blue crab value, online communication and payment, and income and expense accounting. The establishment of blue crab fishing cooperative and supplementary vocational training for fishermen should be held from generation to generation. Blue crab shelters for specific groups should be created as a pioneer project and continuously implemented and financially supported. The fishermen should be given trainings on online media using and income and expense accounting. Information dissemination should reach club presidents.