Supply Chain Analysis of Pineapple in Sta. Maria, Laguna, Philippines

The pineapple industry is a crucial sector in Philippine agriculture, with the country ranking as the second-largest global producer as of 2019. This study analyzes the supply chain dynamics of pineapples in Sta. Maria, Laguna, focusing on key players: farmers, traders (viajeros, wholesalers and retailers), and consumers. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires from 100 respondents, comprising 35 farmers, 35 traders, and 30 consumers, primarily aged 20-40 years. Farmers cultivate the Hawaiian variety using traditional methods such as "tanim isa" (single-row planting), with Ethrel commonly applied for flower induction. However, persistent bottlenecks hinder efficiency across the chain. Farmers face pest infestations, poor crop quality, post-harvest losses, and vulnerability to natural calamities, while traders struggle with transportation costs, pineapple rotting, and inconsistent supply. Limited access to training and value-adding opportunities further constrains farmers' profitability, while traders, who add Php5-20 per pineapple as profit, capture a larger share of the market value. Despite these challenges, the industry remains resilient, with opportunities for growth through improved infrastructure, capacity-building programs, and value-added product development. Addressing these bottlenecks is essential in creating a more efficient, profitable, and sustainable pineapple supply chain in Sta. Maria, Laguna.