Theses & Dissertations

Marine dried fish processing is one of the main occupations in fishing communities in  Matara district. It can be broadly developed as a major part of Sri Lankan economy. This  study was analyzed the supply chains of selected marine dried fish varieties in Matara  district. Although dried fish industry is more significant, there is no any research have been  done about this sector in Matara district. On this background, this research was attempted to  assess the supply chains of selected marine dried fish industry with main three objectives as  identify the major dried fish supply chain/s in Matara district, analyze the market margin at  different nodes in major dried fish supply chains and suggest pragmatic solutions for the  major problems in each node of supply chains. To understand the marketing structure, a  survey was conducted amongst the dried fish vendors and producers. Total sample size of  the study was 100 comprising of 50 dried fish processors and 50 dried fish vendors (10  marketing agents, 20 wholesalers and 20 retailers). Snowball sampling technique was used  for the selection of sample. Two structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data.  Secondary data was collected by using readily available sources as journals, newspapers,  books and websites etc. Data were presented by using descriptive methods. Data analysis  revealed that there are major seven types of dried fish varieties are produced in Matara  district and three major supply chains can be identified. Producer, wholesaler, retailer,  marketing agent and consumer acts as linkages. The study revealed that marketing margins  for all selected dried fish varieties were relatively higher in consumer markets.  Intermediaries of the market faced various problems like inadequate capital, natural  calamities, lack of scientific knowledge and technology, price instability, lack of transport  facilities and higher transport cost, lack of inadequate storage facilities and lack of marketing  information etc. The study concluded that, although dried fish producers and vendors face  many problems, the engagement with this sector is beneficial.