Unpacking the Underutilized Fruit: Economics and Value Chain Analysis of Jamun in Tamil Nadu

Jamun (Syzygium cumini), an Indigenous minor fruit crop, possesses significant nutritional and medicinal properties, with its fruits and seeds exhibiting immense potential for value addition. This comprehensive study examines the economic viability of Jamun cultivation in Tamil Nadu and mapping of the stakeholders involved in the intricate Jamun value chain, encompassing producers, traders, processors, wholesalers, and exporters. The research identifies and analyses the constraints and challenges key actors face along the value chain, including producers, processors, and exporters. The total sample size was 100. The study used investment analysis, marketing efficiency estimation, and garret ranking techniques. The findings highlighted the profitable opportunities in jamun cultivation, particularly for the Jamun value-added products. Five marketing channels are found to be operational in the study area. The farmer’s share in the consumer rupee is found to be highest in Channel I-III and lowest in Channel V. The efficiency of the marketing channel was found to be highest in Channel I and lowest in Channel V. Shredding of flowers due to constant rains and price fluctuation are the major constraints in production. The prevalence of high processing costs and the imposition of tax on exports are the barriers to the traders. The study provides insights to stakeholders and policymakers to develop strategies for enhancing the region’s sustainability, profitability, and competitiveness of the jamun industry.