The success in hatching and grow–out technologies of Macrobrachium rosenbergii has resulted in the expansion of freshwater prawn farming in Thailand. The future development of this industry depends mainly on its economic viability and on the market potential for locally produced prawns.
Unfortunately, little information is available on these economic aspects, which are important for intending farmers and for policy makers.
Brine shrimp (Artemia) is the most important food for juvenile prawns (both fresh and salt water) and its culture is identified by the Government to have potential for development in Thailand. However, the technical and economic aspects of the production of this species have also not been thoroughly assessed.
The main objectives (Annex 1) of this study are:-
to evaluate the economic status of hatchery and grow-out farm operations in Thailand;
to assess the domestic and export market potentials and processing requirements of locally produced freshwater prawn; and
to study the production, processing and marketing aspects for Artemia produced in Thailand.
The report contains three major sections based on the objectives mentioned above. Each section has its own findings and recommendations.
