A competitiveness analysis of Tilapia Cluster at the Lake of Tres Marias

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyse the competitiveness of tilapia production at Tres Marias lake, in Minas Gerais state. The cluster concept as well as the new institutional economics along with agro-industrial systems coordination concepts were used as frameworks for the analysis and data interpretation. For gathering such data, several interviews were done and a workshop was organized with paticipants of this specific cluster. It has been possible to conclude that despite the great advantages concerning natural resources and governamental support, the great challenges to improve the cluster competitiveness are related to the consolidation of institutions and better horizontal and vertical coordination among the participants. Once actions towards this direction are implemented, it is reasonable to believe that the local resources will be better exploited, generating relevant economic and social benefits for a still underdeveloped region in Brazil, but with great potential.