Cost and Return Analysis of Aquaculture Activity in White Shrimp Cultivation Supply Chain, Trang Province

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the demographic characteristics, the supply chain structure, and the cost–return performance of farming in Trang Province. Data were collected from 30 shrimp farmers across five districts through questionnaires and structured interviews. The results indicated that the majority of farmers were aged 51–60 years with 10–20 years of farming experience. Their primary motivation for shrimp farming was the high market price, and personal savings served as the main source of investment. All farmers used seawater for cultivation and obtained larvae from private hatcheries. The supply chain comprised three segments: upstream (input suppliers and farmers), midstream (intermediaries and wholesalers), and downstream (retailers, restaurants, and consumers). On average, farmers earned 360,000 baht in sales revenue per rai per cycle, with production costs of 250,000 baht and yields of 2,200 kilograms. Administrative expenses averaged 4,000 baht per rai, resulting in a gross profit of 110,000 baht and a net profit of 106,000 baht per rai. The return on investment was 29.12%, with gross and net profit margins of 30.55% and 29.44%, respectively. The findings highlight the importance of production planning, cost control, and efficient resource management to enhance profitability. Future efforts should support training on expand market and distribution opportunities.