Changement technique et émergence de nouveaux entrepreneurs aquacoles: I'introduction de la crevette dans les systémes piscicoles de la province de Pampanga (Philippines)

Abstract

In the Philippines, the coastal area of the province of Pampanga is well known for its aquaculture potential. Development of the first brackish water fish ponds for milkfish (Chanos chanos) culture dates back to the beginning of the XXth century. However, the main expansion of this sector began in 1980 with the introduction of shrimp (Panaeus monodon), a product of high commercial value. Although shrimp farming and the associated technical changes offer new opportunities to the local population, access to production means such as land and financial capital remains rather difficult with regards to land tenure disparities which are characteristic for the country. Through a socio-anthropological study of aquaculture firms in the municipality of Sasmuan, this text analyzes the modalities of integration of entrepreneurs into the local aquaculture. It shows the important role of social networks and interpersonal relations built by entrepreneurs in the access to production factors such as land and financial capital. The empirical analysis shows that the principle of reciprocity which cements exchanges within these social networks coexists with the trade principle and makes it possible to surmount the difficulties related to socioeconomic disparities while facilitating the integration of entrepreneurs into the aquaculture sector. © 2007 John Libbey Eurotext - All rights reserved.