Funding-POTENTIAL MARKETING STRUCTURES FOR THE CATFISH INDUSTRY; March 31, 2010

Background

Southern aquaculture industries have declined as a result of competition from low-priced imports,

substantial increases in the price of feed, and a weak economy. Although input cost of production has

increased substantially, aquaculture industries have found it difficult to pass these cost increases through

to consumers. The food marketing literature in recent years has highlighted the rapidly increasing market

power of large food retailers. Market power at the retail level makes it difficult for individual suppliers,

who are often not linked organizationally or spatially, to pass cost increases through the supply chain. As

a result, retailers have the power to exert downward pressure on prices. The primary purpose of this project

is to identify market structures that have resulted in higher farm-level prices for similar agriculture commodities

and examine the probable consequences of adopting these alternative market structures and organizations for

the U.S. farm-raised catfish industry.

Project Duration and Estimated Budget

This project will be funded for up to a maximum of 2 years. Applicants should be aware that a total of

$125,000 is available per year for the 2-year period.

How to Respond

This project will be developed using the “competitive proposal method” as authorized on page 14 of the

SRAC policy manual (www.msstate.edu/dept/srac/manual.pdf). Multi-state teams of scientists having

demonstrated records of expertise in the subject of this project must complete a project proposal using the

format on the attached pages. The proposal must include a one page vita for each participant and a

proposed budget for each participating institution or organization. Proposals, vitae, and budgets that are

not in the proper format will not be considered. One proposal will be selected for funding based on review

by a committee of scientists not involved in any of the proposals that are submitted. Send an electronic

copy (Word or WordPerfect) of the proposal to the SRAC Director as an email attachment to

<ctucker@drec.msstate.edu> by Wednesday, March 31, 2010. Proposals received after that date will not

be considered.

Additional information can be obtained from the SRAC office by calling 662-686-3242.

Craig S. Tucker, Director

Southern Regional Aquaculture Center

P.O. Box 197

Stoneville, MS 38776