VIETNAM’S AQUACULTURE LANDSCAPE: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Aquaculture has emerged as a pivotal sector in Vietnam’s economy, playing an indispensable role in the nation’s development. It not only ensures a steady food supply for domestic consumption and export but also creates jobs, increases income, and improves the livelihoods of Vietnamese farmers. 

Compared to natural fishery exploitation, aquaculture offers a sustainable approach to maintaining aquatic resources and fostering long-term economic growth. The industry’s recent achievements, such as the continuous rise in seafood export value, the adoption of advanced technologies in aquaculture practices, and the development of sustainable farming models, stand as testaments to the immense potential of Vietnam’s aquaculture sector.

In this article, Vietstock will provide an overview of the aquaculture industry’s crucial role in Vietnam’s economy, its achievements, along with the challenges and future development directions.

Vietnam’s aquaculture landscape in 2024

Vietnam’s seafood industry, accounting for 4 – 5% of GDP, is a key economic sector. In 2022, the sector’s export value reached an impressive 11 billion USD, accounting for 9 – 10% of the nation’s total export turnover. 

Recognizing the industry’s immense potential, Vietnam’s government has approved the Fisheries Development Strategy for 2030, with a vision to 2045. This strategy aims to achieve an annual growth rate of 3 – 4% in aquaculture production value, reaching a total output of 7 million tons, and an export value of 14 – 16 billion USD.

Vietnam’s aquaculture industry focuses on intensive and super-intensive farming, applying advanced technology to ensure food security, and promote social welfare, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development.

To achieve development goals and optimize economic efficiency, Vietnam has implemented various aquaculture models. Among these, several models stand out for their exceptional economic efficiency:

• Intensive farming: This model involves high-density farming, utilizing advanced technology to control the farming environment, nutrition, and health of aquatic species. This approach enhances productivity and product quality while minimizing negative environmental impacts.
• Improved extensive farming: This model combines traditional methods with modern technology to enhance production efficiency. It is commonly applied in rural areas where residents can make use of available natural resources.
• Semi-intensive farming: This model combines extensive and intensive farming, with moderate stocking densities and partial use of modern technology. This model helps reduce initial investment and management costs while still ensuring high productivity and product quality.
• Recirculating aquaculture: This model utilizes a closed-loop water system to cultivate aquatic species in a tightly controlled environment. It helps conserve water, minimize environmental pollution, and enhance production efficiency.
• Greenhouse aquaculture: This model utilizes greenhouses to create a stable environment for aquaculture, protecting against adverse weather conditions. This model allows for better control of environmental factors and significantly enhances productivity.

These models not only bring high economic efficiency but also contribute to the sustainable development of Vietnam’s aquaculture industry, enhancing seafood product quality, and effectively catering to both domestic and international market demands.

Export-driven aquaculture: The successful approach of Vietnam

Vietnam’s export-oriented aquaculture provides a significant competitive advantage for Vietnam’s agriculture sector, promoting economic growth, and unlocking attractive opportunities for businesses.

Vietnam’s seafood export market landscape

Vietnam’s seafood export market is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by continuous quality improvements and a growing reputation in the international market. 

Demand from major markets such as the US, EU, Japan, and South Korea remains high, especially for products like shrimp, pangasius, and various processed seafood items.

Identifying promising markets for Vietnam’s seafood products

Potential markets for Vietnamese seafood include the US, EU, Japan, South Korea, and China. These markets have a high demand for quality seafood products and are willing to pay premium prices.

Additionally, emerging markets such as ASEAN and the Middle East are gradually becoming attractive destinations for Vietnamese seafood exporters.

Solutions to enhance the quality and food safety of exported seafood products

• Applying modern technology: Utilize advanced technology in aquaculture, harvesting, and processing to optimize quality control and food safety measures.
• Strict control from production to transportation: Establish a comprehensive quality control system that encompasses the entire supply chain, from aquaculture to harvesting, processing, and transportation. This ensures that products consistently meet the highest standards.
• Training for workers: Enhance training for workers in farming techniques, processing, and food safety management.

These solutions and measures not only improve Vietnam’s seafood product quality but also enhance its competitiveness in the global market. Therefore, it contributes to the sustainable development of the national aquaculture industry.

Strategies for sustainable aquaculture in Vietnam

Sustainable aquaculture is the key factor to ensure the long-term development of the industry, while also protecting the environment and enhancing product quality.

To achieve this goal, the application of science and technology, environmental protection, and disease prevention are essential solutions.

Application of science and technology

The application of scientific and technological advances in aquaculture increases productivity and product quality. Modern technologies, such as recirculating water systems (RAS), biotechnology, and automation, are being widely implemented.

These technologies not only help reduce production costs but also ensure the stability and high quality of seafood products. Investing in technology enables Vietnam’s aquaculture industry to meet international standards, thus expanding export markets.

Environmental protection solutions for aquaculture

Environmental protection is crucial in sustainable aquaculture. Measures to minimize water pollution include using clean feed, efficient waste management, and advanced wastewater treatment systems. Sustainable water resource management not only preserves ecosystems but also maintains water quality, ensuring a healthy environment for aquatic species.

Disease prevention and control strategies in aquaculture

Disease prevention is an indispensable component of sustainable aquaculture practices. Measures such as vaccination, livestock density control, and strict sanitation protocols help minimize the risk of disease outbreaks.

Moreover, monitoring and early detection of signs of disease in aquatic species allow farmers to timely mitigate the spread of disease, thereby minimizing losses.

Vietstock Expo & Forum – The International Livestock and Aquaculture Exhibition

Vietstock Expo & Forum 2024 – Vietnam’s Premier International Feed, Livestock, Aquaculture & Meat Industry Show – will be an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about efficient aquaculture models.

At Vietstock, participants will have the opportunity to stay updated on the latest knowledge and technologies in the industry. Moreover, businesses and aquaculturists can experience advanced products and services, participate in technical seminars, and exchange knowledge with leading industry experts. Vietstock not only enhances knowledge of sustainable aquaculture but also opens up opportunities for collaboration and development among industry businesses.

The adoption of sustainable solutions, environmental protection, and disease prevention not only enhances production efficiency but also contributes to the development of the aquaculture industry towards sustainability.

Register now to participate in Vietstock 2024: https://ers-vn.informa-info.com/vsv24

If you need more information about Vietstock Expo & Forum 2024, please CONTACT US:

• Exhibiting: Ms. Sophie Nguyen – [email protected]
• Group Delegation Support: Ms. Phuong – [email protected]
• Marcom Support:  Ms. Anita Pham – [email protected]