Title: Economic implications of utilising locally produced feeds versus imported commercial feeds for aquaculture sustainability in Malawi.

This study aimed to assess the economic implications of utilising locally produced feeds compared to the use of commercial fish feed imports on the sustainability of the Aquaculture Industry in Malawi. The growth performance of shire tilapia (Oreochromis shiranus) was assessed, and a cost-benefit analysis of utilising local feed production compared to commercial fish feed imports was conducted. Four diets were evaluated: three from local commercial fish feed producers (T1, T2, and T3) and one imported commercial fish feed (T4). There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) for the growth parameters of T3 and T4, summarised as follows: mean weight gains of 16.6 g (T3) and 17.48 g (T4); average daily weight gains of 0.16 g day^-1 (T3) and 0.18 g day^-1 (T4); and average specific growth rates of 5.47% day^-1 (T3) and 5.47% day^-1 (T3). However, there was a statistical difference (p < 0.05) in the feed conversion rate for T3 (2.81 g g^-1) and T4 (3.03 g g^-1). A proximate analysis of the four feeds was conducted to determine the macronutrient levels in each diet.

The fish feed value chain in Malawi was mapped and assessed to identify key players and the strengths and weaknesses existing in the value chain. Key players were categorised according to their functions as suppliers of raw materials and commercial feed imports, local producers of fish and feed, traders, and final consumers. Key challenges identified include a lack of quality assurance regulations, no clear regulation of players’ functions and roles, and the need to subsidise the importation tax of raw materials for local feed production. The results of the cost-benefit analysis indicate that, according to NVP, imported fish feed is presently more profitable; BCR indicates that local feed production has the potential to bring substantial net benefits; and lastly, IRR indicates that local feed production is not profitable. However, the local feed production venture has the potential to be profitable and present social benefits for the country.