Trade marketing analysis of glass eel (Anguilla spp.) resource in Aparri, Cagayan, Philippines

Abstract

Trade marketing of Anguillid eels, a highly valued food fish among East Asian countries, has not been given attention in the Philippines. In this study, trade market analysis was conducted to understand the interaction among market players and come up with schemes that will benefit all stakeholders. The study analyzed the marketing strategies and distribution channels of the industry. Two market chains were identified in the study. In one chain, another layer of consolidators called stockers was added in areas that are far from the main consolidator while in the other chain, glass eel gatherers directly sell their catch to the main consolidator. Market destinations include exporters and eel farms from Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Manila, Pampanga, and Tarlac. The system elucidated the unequal distribution of benefits among the key players placing the fishers on the disadvantage side due to the high price gap from the gatherers to the traders.