Building a strategy for developing the mud crab sector in the Mekong Delta: Applying the SWOT matrix according to the extended chain method

Abstract

The study utilized descriptive statistical analysis of secondary data on the mud crab sector in the Mekong Delta. The results revealed that the total mud crab farming area in the Mekong Delta was approximately 465 thousand hectares, with the provinces of Kien Giang, Ca Mau, and Bac Lieu having the largest farming areas, producing 68 thousand tons of mud crab. This represents an increase of nearly 8.2% in total output over the course of 5 years. Additionally, the study employed the SWOT analysis method, following the CWL model with 7 steps, and focused on identifying 3 strengths, 3 weaknesses, 4 opportunities, and 4 threats. Based on this analysis, the study proposed 4 strategies. In the short-term, these strategies include: (1) Capitalizing on the high demand for mud crab consumption by expanding production and ensuring product quality to meet market demand in terms of quantity, quality, and safety, while also ensuring timely and convenient delivery for consumers; (2) Utilizing infrastructure development to reduce waiting time for mud crabs in the supply chain of the Mekong Delta's mud crab sector. In the long-term, the proposed strategies include: (1) Meeting high-quality standards by improving the quality of mud crab products to meet consumer needs; (2) Enhancing control over the environment and input materials to reduce risks and competition with substitute products, ultimately improving the economic efficiency of the Mekong Delta's mud crab sector.