A Review on Economic Viability and Challenges in Mushroom Agribusiness in Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

The global mushroom industry has witnessed significant growth due to rising consumer awareness of mushrooms' nutritional and medicinal benefits. Mushroom farming, appealing for its high-value crop status and low initial investment, has become popular among small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs, especially in developing countries. This trend underscores the potential of mushroom cultivation as a tool for poverty alleviation and rural development. This review examines the economic aspects of mushroom cultivation, focusing on production, productivity, market dynamics, marketing strategies, channels, and price spread. By systematically analyzing existing literature, the study identifies key factors influencing the viability of mushroom farming as an agribusiness. The methodology involves a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed articles, research reports, and books, ensuring a robust analysis. Results indicate that while mushroom cultivation offers significant economic opportunities, it faces challenges such as high initial investment, technical expertise requirements, market volatility, and regulatory compliance. The review provides insights into enhancing profitability and addressing constraints, contributing to the literature on sustainable agribusiness practices and informing future research and policy interventions.