Does application of quality assurance certification by shrimp farmers enhance feasibility of implementing traceability along the supply chain? Evidence from Vietnam

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of applications of international quality assurance certification at farm level on the implementation of traceability along the shrimp supply chain with evidence from Vietnam. Descriptive statistics was explored to compare products, information flows, financial efficiency, and willingness to implement traceability between certified and noncertified quality assurance shrimp farms. A binary logistics model was applied to examine the effects of applications of international quality assurance certification and other factors on the willingness to implement traceability of shrimp farmers. Found results showed that the applications of international quality assurance certification of shrimp farmers supported traceability of shrimp products among stakeholders in the supply chain. The certified farmers indicated a higher willingness to implement traceability. However, the profitability of those applications for shrimp farmers was not statistically found. The economics incentives, including farm-gate price differentiation and minimization of production costs, should be carefully considered.