Analysis of the Macrobrachium rosenbergii prawn trade in markets and restaurants in Mexico

Resumen

Objective: To identify the links that integrate the production-distribution-consumption chain of the Malaysian prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii in Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach: The survey method, semi-structured interview, and open-ended questions were used to learn about the origin and destination of the product, installed technological capacity, production volumes, purchase and sale prices, supply and demand characteristics, as well as the perception of product quality, which was carried out through the “mystery customer” technique.

Results: Imports are the origin and driving force of the M. rosenbergii prawn market in Mexico, mainly in the markets of Mexico City (La Nueva Viga) and Zapopan, Jalisco (Mercado del Mar), which concentrate more than 80% of the domestic market through a network of importers, wholesalers, retailers and restaurateurs, mainly. Aquaculture production is incipient, with two farms and two programs promoted by academic institutions.

Limitations on study/implications: This study was a first effort to understand the structure and components of the M. rosenbergii prawn market in Mexico. It focuses on descriptive work that will serve as a basis for future research.

Findings/conclusions: There are international marketing companies that stockpile the product and introduce it into the domestic market; this import reaches large supply centers and is then distributed to retail markets and supermarkets. This marketing chain is a motivating factor for inducing domestic production of the M. rosenbergii prawn.