The U.S. catfish industry is one of the fastest growing businesses in the agricultural sector. Annual production growth rate has been above 6.0% from 1991 to 2000. While sales have increased, real prices have fallen. There is expansion of production in nontraditional producing states and reduction in growth rates in others. Yields and surface area continue to increase, while the number of operators continues to decline. There is concern that structural changes may result in uncertainty, which may require changes in strategies and a new research agenda. In this article, we critically examine the structure, production, consumption, and marketing changes in the catfish industry. We forecast demand, supply and prices, and evaluate management and marketing strategies to meet competition in coming years. Research priorities to meet these changes are proposed.
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