Exploring the production barriers faced by shrimp aquaculture SMEs in Brunei Darussalam

Purpose Shrimp aquaculture is a key driver of food security and economic diversification in emerging economies. In Brunei Darussalam, however, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) continue to experience inconsistent production. This study examines the production barriers faced by shrimp aquaculture SMEs through the lens of the resource-based view (RBV). Design/methodology/approach Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with seven shrimp aquapreneurs. Data were analysed using a two-stage thematic approach, combining inductive coding with RBV-informed interpretation. Findings The findings reveal interconnected internal and external barriers, including shortages of production inputs, risk-averse entrepreneurial behaviour, misaligned government support and low consumer acceptance. Applying the RBV and valuable, rare, inimitable and non-substitutable framework, the study shows that both tangible and intangible resource deficiencies prevent SMEs from developing sustained competitive advantage. Research limitations/implications This study is based on a small qualitative sample of seven aquapreneurs, which limits generalisability. Future research could expand the sample to include policymakers, industry associations, and other stakeholders to provide a more comprehensive perspective. Comparative studies across Association of Southeast Asian Nations would also be valuable to assess whether similar barriers affect aquaculture SMEs in other small developing economies. The findings also suggest the need for further theory-driven research that integrates firm-level resource constraints with broader institutional factors shaping SME performance. Originality/value The study contributes by extending RBV to aquaculture SMEs in a small developing economy and demonstrates how firm-level resource constraints interact with institutional conditions to shape production performance.