Poverty and vulnerability assessment of tilapia farmers in the southwestern States of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas in Mexico

Abstract This study assessed the impact of tilapia farming on poverty in the States of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas, which have the highest levels of poverty in Mexico. The study uses both 2018 data from a sample of micro- and small-sized farmers in these States, and the Mexican government’s multidimensional poverty methodology. Results show fewer tilapia farmers in extreme or moderate poverty compared to the general population’s value in the municipalities and States where these farms are located, therefore asserting the positive impact of the activity. While cage farmers have more social rights deprivations, their income is greater compared to that of tank and pond farmers. Tilapia projects are also relevant to food security, increasing both household fish and animal-protein consumption.