Coordination between fish producers and processors in the north of Paraná state, Brazil

Abstract

Fish farming is considered a strategic activity for sustainable food security and for the social development in developing countries. Paraná state has been taking a prominent position in that activity. However, there are obstacles to the organization and development of Paraná’s fish farming, which can be mitigated by an efficient fish chain coordination. Thus, using of Transaction Cost Economics, the present study aims to understand the forms of coordination between fish producers and processors in the North of Paraná, seeking to verify the transacted attributes, the governance structures, as well as the existence of the alignment between the transactions characteristics and the type of governance structures. We conducted a qualitative descriptive research, supported on bibliographical research and field research. Data collection was performed through a semi-structured interview with a representative of EMATER / Pr, two fish producers and one processor. It was concluded that, given the existence of physical assets specificity, climate and price uncertainties and opportunistic attitudes in the relationship, the adoption of market as governance structure is not aligned with the efficiency conditions proposed theoretically, which can hinder chain competitiveness.