Fish Market Chain Analysis In Ethiopia: The Case Of Lake Tana And Three Rift Valley Lakes

Abstract

This study examined the fish market chain in Ethiopia from four purposely selected fishery centers, namely, Lakes Tana, Ziway, Hawassa and Chamo with special focus on commercially important fish species from October 2018 to July 2020. A total of 450 fishers and 89 fish traders were interviewed. A descriptive analytical method was used to analyze the data. The study analyzed fish markets in terms of their structure, conduct and performance (SCP). All fishers and assemblers engaged in the study did not have fishing license as well as 65.2% of market actors were not licensed in fish trading. Transportation of fish from the collection points to registered storage sites has shown a clear association with licensed fish traders (P<0.005); while considerable amount of catch entered the market using illegal and unregistered routes by passing standard storage facilities. Fishers shared financial benefits rating 46.82%, 3.18% and 50% from assemblers, cooperatives and retailers, respectively. Fish retailers and assemblers obtained the highest gross profits of 1620 and 1572 Ethiopian Birr/quintal (ETB/Qt), respectively; whereas fishers and cooperatives obtained lower gross profits of 1514 and 1050 ETB/Qt, respectively. Fishers, assemblers, retailers, cooperatives, wholesalers, hotels and consumers were important fish market intermediaries. Fish market channel members clearly indicated that the chain is predominantly traditionally split and there are too many market networks. We concluded that efficient government administrative setup, re-organized cooperatives and institutionalized market outlets are urgently needed to address short and efficient chains by the intensive efforts of stakeholders for the benefits of all actors to establish improved fish production and marketing system in the country.