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Abstract
The main purpose of this study is to assess the status of vertical linkages of agents in the shrimp supply chain in Quang Dien district, Thua Thien Hue province. The results of analysis from 52 shrimp farming households show that the linkages between farmers and purchasing agents, between farmers and shrimp hatcheries attract many households and these are also the links with the highest degree of closeness. In contrast, the two least strong linkages are between the farmer and the shrimp feed agent, and between the farmer and the drug/chemical dealer. However, these links are non-contractual, direct sales and are based on trust and acquaintance. In addition, the price of shrimp products is the least profitable of these linkages. Some policies aimed at developing vertical linkages include: forming purchase and sale contracts, strengthening information channels, improving farmer capacity and ensuring food safety and hygiene.