Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries in the Midst of Adaptation and Diversification: Insights from Southern Italy

Agata Nicolosi, Donatella Di Gregorio, Giuseppe Arena, Valentina Rosa Laganà and Donatella Privitera
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Agata Nicolosi: Department of Agriculture, Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria, 89122 Reggio, Italy
Donatella Di Gregorio: Department of Agriculture, Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria, 89122 Reggio, Italy
Giuseppe Arena: Department of Agriculture, Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria, 89122 Reggio, Italy
Valentina Rosa Laganà: Department of Agriculture, Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria, 89122 Reggio, Italy

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 13, 1-27

Abstract: The study looks at the problems facing coastal fishing communities. It highlights the impacts that, in the complex framework of the EU reforms, have manifested themselves on economic activities and on society. The aim of the paper is twofold: to examine small-scale artisanal fishing in an area of Southern Italy in order to develop resilience and diversification and at the same time to outline the profiles of local bluefish buyers to highlight development strategies for the sector. The research carried out through a direct survey by administering a questionnaire to fishermen operating in areas of Southern Italy and the data cross-referenced with the opinions of local consumers. A conjoint experiment, followed by a multiple correspondence analysis and cluster identification, was used to outline the profiles of local bluefish buyers. The results of the analysis reveal that the fish market and the restaurant sector are the main distribution channels preferred by fishermen. Furthermore, fishermen are very sensitive to environmental issues and are willing to collaborate and actively participate in the environmental protection of the sea. Consumers recognise the quality of local bluefish, and they implicitly perceive the sustainability of the method of capture. The results show the need to undertake synergistic actions for the fishing industry, capable of activating marketing strategies adequately to support, promote and develop the sector. The results of the study provide helpful information for food companies in order to better segment their market and target their consumers, as well as to effectively promote their product using brands, certifications and traceability.

Keywords: small-scale fishing; sustainability; consumers; conjoint analysis; multiple correspondence analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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