Aquaculture export eyes US$ 10 billion export turnover

The VASEP announced that they have already analyzed and set export goals for specific items, including US$ 4.2 billion  for shrimps, and US$ 2.3 billion for catfish, and US$ 3.5 billion of seafood export in 2019.  

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong was quoted as saying that the goal is extremely high but feasible. Especially, shrimp export showed positive signs. Vietnamese catfish is welcomed in many countries. Aquaculture exploitation progressed in a sustainable way. 

Earlier, the association set a goal of US$ 9.5 billion export revenue in 2018. However, the sector only earned nearly US$ 9 billion of export revenue due to heavy pressure of climate change and the EU’s yellow card on Vietnamese seafood from violations of the IUU rules. 

Minister Cuong added that IUU compliance is difficult but it is suitable with Viet Nam’s goal on sustainable exploitation. 

He stressed the necessity to pursue sustainable fishing exploitation without seeking yellow card withdrawal. 

The Minister noticed the importance of a synchronous value chain from exploitation, production of raw materials, market processing and organization.  

Besides traditional markets, enterprises and associations were urged to exploit new and potential markets while optimizing the domestic market with nearly 100 million people and 15 million international guests. 

Enterprises were suggested to boost connectivity; connect with peasants and fishermen to solve the issues of number and resources in favor of sustainable growth./.

By Kim Loan