Analysis of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) export using SWOT and QSPM approaches based on fuzzy logic

Exports of agricultural products play an important role in Iran's economy. In this paper, Prunus armeniaca L. export have been studied. Prunus armeniaca L. also called ansu apricot, Siberian apricot, Tibetan apricot, is a species of Prunus. Iran is one of biggest producers of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), a fruit with high nutritional and medicinal values. This paper is done in Iran, and SWOT and QSPM approaches based on fuzzy logic is used for apricot export. SWOT analysis is a commonly used tool for analyzing external and internal environments simultaneously in order to acquire a systematic approach and support for a decision situation. QSPM analysis is a high-level strategic management approach for evaluating possible strategies. Apricot export in Iran are facing problems. But by defect elimination, Iran can be one of the most important apricot exporter. The most important strategies for defect elimination in this paper are: “Reduce investment risk”, “Increased support for exports purposefully”, “Defect elimination related to transportation, packaging and maintenance facility”. Different ideas can be analyzed using strategic analysis models (such as SWOT and QSPM). Finally, applicable and important ideas can be implemented.

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), SWOT, QSPM, Fuzzy logic