Author(s): PEDROZA FILHO, M. X.; RODRIGUES, A. P. O.; REZENDE, F. P.; FLORES, R. M. V.; MUNOZ, A. E. P.; BARROSO, R. M.

Summary: Economic assessment at the farm level requires a robust methodology in order to assure reliability. This paper describes an innovative methodology and analyzes its ability to fill a gap regarding economic methodology for farm level aquaculture in Brazil. This methodology consists of collection of technical parameters, production costs and other economic information by expert panels with value chain agents. Variables are obtained through consensus among panel participants considering the typical farm approach (TFA). All collected data are presented to producers in order to improve comprehension about their performance. A benefit of this methodology includes highly reliable data because information is provided by a representative sample of producers that confirm it in a consensus process. Moreover, data collection costs are low in comparison to individual interviews or survey methods. Continuous updating of inputs prices and the high level of participation of producers are other assets of this method. Despite its effectiveness the method presents some challenges including: (a) the heterogeneity of producer profiles and consequent difficulty in standardizing data, (b) the logistic requirements related to organization of meetings, and (c) mobilization of producers and other panel participants in order to assure their representative presence in the meeting.

Publication year: 2017

Types of publication: Journal article

Unit: Embrapa Fisheries and Aquaculture

Keywords: Agronegócio, Aquicultura, Custo de produção, Fish farms, Panel method, Production costs, Typical farmer