Quality management in the Pangasius export supply chain in Vietnam : the case of small-scale Pangasius farming in the Mekong River Delta

The thesis focuses on three areas: quality control at farm level, quality assurance at chain level, and the business relationships at farm level. The objective of this thesis is to explore the major challenges for the present quality management system to assure safety and quality standards in the export supply chain of small-scale fish farming in Vietnam. The findings show that problems of small-scale farmers involved in export supply chain can be dealt with through developing business relations between chain actors. To establish a well-organized fish supply chain, it is crucial to encourage small-scale farmers to develop horizontal co-operation. Through co-operation, farmers can access inputs and extension services more easily, can improve product quality, increase quantity and achieve economies of scale, and increase bargaining power with buyers. Farmers need to be trained, organized, and willing to innovate. It leads to the improvement of farmers’ awareness through increased information and knowledge (i.e. better management practices system). Similarly, it is vital for small-scale fish farmers to develop business relations with processing/export firms through flexible contract farming. In the Pangasius supply chain, the processing/export firms are generally the most powerful stakeholders, playing a leading role in organizing chain quality management. They get the information from the importers of fish quality standards. Government can contribute to provide an enabling environment, including transparent regulations concerning food safety and quality and availability of certified inputs..