Introduction
Fish is highly regarded as a nutritious meat product due to its abundance in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3, along with high-quality protein, digestibility, biological value, and a rich source of vitamins and minerals. In the Amazon region, fishing serves as the cornerstone of the economy in several cities and traditional communities, owing to the abundant variety of fish species exploited annually. The identification of the Macrobrachium amazonicum value chain is extremely important to promote the sustainable development of this species, enhance its potential as a fishing resource and boost the growth of the fishing industry. Thus, the objective was to carry out evaluations in the Macrobrachium amazonicum value chain using the SWOT analysis, which is an analysis and strategic planning tool.
Material and methods
The SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) is widely acknowledged as a crucial strategic tool for assessing scenarios, delineating strengths and weaknesses, and pinpointing opportunities and threats within a specific context. Its effectiveness in acquiring knowledge and understanding, both internally and externally, has propelled the adoption of the SWOT matrix as a cornerstone practice in strategic planning. The intrinsic attributes of the organization, encompassing strengths and weaknesses, alongside external factors such as opportunities and threats from the environment, form the foundational elements of the SWOT matrix. Consequently, the matrix was employed to scrutinize the value chain of Amazonian shrimp (Macrobrachium amazonicum) in the state of Amapá, situated in the Eastern Amazon region of Brazil.
Results and discussion
In examining the strengths of Amazonian shrimp (Macrobrachium amazonicum), it was found to be a highly nutritious food source, rich in highly digestible protein and boasting a low saturated fat content, rendering it an abundant resource in the Amazon region with significant market potential. However, weaknesses in its production chain were also identified, including its comparatively low productivity in relation to other shrimp species, as well as the lack of adequate infrastructure such as roads and ports, hindering the transportation and commercialization of both raw materials and processed products. Furthermore, the absence of standardization in the capture, production, and certification processes poses a challenge, potentially affecting the quality and consumer confidence in Amazonian shrimp products.
On the other hand, opportunities abound for Amazonian shrimp in the global market, driven by the increasing demand for natural and sustainable products. The shrimp’s export potential further amplifies these opportunities, as consumers increasingly seek out products with a traceable origin. However, amidst these promising prospects, threats loom, including competition from other shrimp species and the looming specter of climate change. These factors pose significant risks to the quality and yield of Amazonian shrimp production, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and adaptation to mitigate potential adverse impacts.
Conclusion
Thus, based on the analysis made from the SWOT analysis of the Macrobrachium amazonicum value chain, it is possible to identify strategies that can be used to maximize strengths, minimize weaknesses, take advantage of opportunities and avoid threats. By leveraging its strengths, such as its nutritional value and abundant availability, while addressing weaknesses such as low productivity and inadequate infrastructure, the Amazonian shrimp industry can capitalize on opportunities in the global market for natural and sustainable products. Investments in technology aimed at enhancing productivity, coupled with product certification and standardization processes, are crucial steps towards bolstering consumer confidence and securing a competitive edge in the marketplace. Additionally, the exploration of new export markets holds immense promise for expanding the reach of Amazonian shrimp. Moving forward, strategic implementation of these identified strategies will be essential to unlocking the full potential of the Macrobrachium amazonicum value chain and ensuring its long-term sustainability and success in the dynamic seafood industry.