Fish value chain analysis: a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction – Fish value chains (FVC) are crucial for enhancing global fisheries through increased profitability, sustainability and equitable benefits for all stakeholders. However, little is known about how contemporary research trends address problems in the global FVC. Methods – This study seeks to ascertain recent insights regarding FVC by analyzing literature from 2010 to 2022, including research trends, geographic focuses, methodological advancements, and future research prospects. We use PRISMA-guided scoping review methods and extract 86 articles from major databases, yielding three main results. Results and discussion – First, aquaculture development, small-scale fisheries, and supply chain networks of South Asian countries have been prioritized as key focus areas in recent decades. Second, FVC research transitions from a focus on less technical optimization and market dynamics to an enhanced emphasis on resilience, sustainability, and advanced digital transformation, employing mostly survey-based and descriptive approaches. Third, stakeholders face multidimensional challenges such as post-harvest loss, infrastructure gaps, less technology adoption and limited market access. Overall, this study offers recommendations for future research grounded in the findings and assessment of prevailing research trends and themes.