Challenges faced by frozen seafood importers in Malaysia

Chong, Jen Kai (2024) Challenges faced by frozen seafood importers in Malaysia. Master dissertation/thesis, UTAR.

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Abstract

The global frozen seafood industry has been experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, long-lasting seafood products. However, the sector also faces significant challenges, particularly in maintaining competitiveness, ensuring accurate labelling, and implementing effective traceability systems. This research explores the challenges faced by frozen seafood importers in Malaysia, focusing on three primary research areas: competitiveness, labelling, and traceability. Previous research has been limited in scope and methodology, often lacking comprehensive qualitative analysis. The research employs a qualitative methodology to provide a detailed and nuanced understanding of the challenges within the frozen seafood industry. Data were collected through in-depth qualitative interviews with five key industry stakeholders, an Export Manager with 10 years of experience; a Director with 30 years of experience; a Managing Director with 20 years of experience; a Purchasing Manager with 11 years of experience; and a Purchasing Manager with 9 years of experience. Their extensive expertise provided rich insights into the complexities and nuances of the industry. The interview data were analyzed using Nvivo software to ensure a systematic and rigorous analysis of the qualitative data. The findings reveal significant barriers to competitiveness, labelling, and traceability within the frozen seafood import industry in Malaysia. Competitive challenges include supplier reliability, market conditions, consumer dynamics, and regulatory changes. Labelling challenges involve information integrity, supplier conduct, and compliance issues. Traceability challenges encompass awareness gaps, adoption, and implementation barriers. These issues highlight the need for improved regulatory frameworks, better management practices, and increased industry-wide awareness and education. The study’s implications extend to policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers aiming to improve the competitive positioning and operational efficiency of the frozen seafood import sector in Malaysia. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering practical recommendations for industry stakeholders to address these issues, ultimately enhancing the sector's overall performance and sustainability.

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