(seafood.vasep.com) Brackish water shrimp farming has been identified as a key economic sector for Can Tho City (formerly part of Soc Trang Province), with significant potential for marine economic development. To effectively leverage its existing advantages, the locality has launched the brackish ưater shrimp farming development project for the 2023–2025 period with a vision to 2030. The project aims to improve productivity and quality, protect the ecological environment, and adapt to climate change.
Target by 2025: Shrimp exports to reach 1 billion USD
According to the plan, by 2025, Cần Thơ aims to maintain 57,000 hectares of brackish water shrimp farming, including 1,500 hectares for super-intensive farming, 40,500 hectares for intensive and semi-intensive farming, 15,000 hectares for integrated rice–shrimp and improved extensive farming. The projected output is 233,800 tons with export earnings expected to reach 1 billion USD.
To achieve this goal, the locality will implement 45 pilot models tailored to the conditions of each sub-region; assign farm identification codes to 100% of farms/ households meeting technical requirements; support 20 cooperatives in obtaining VietGAP certification and promote the development of value chain-based production linkage models. These efforts aim to establish centralized raw material zones, enabling farmers to better access services, technology and markets.
Ms. Quach Thi Thanh Binh, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Can Tho City, stated: “We will convert some low-efficiency agricultural production areas to aquaculture zones, develop management models suited to each locality and apply high technology to increase productivity. Special attention will be given to the monitoring roles of stakeholders such as government agencies, scientists, businesses and farmers.”
Environmental Control and Market Expansion
In addition to providing technical support, Can Tho City is strengthening the waste management from shrimp farming facilities, shrimp hatchery areas and processing plants. Relevant authorities will regularly update and issue warnings about extreme weather events, environmental pollution and diseases to help farmers proactively manage production and mitigate risks.
Regarding market development, the Department of Agriculture and Environment will continue to research and collect domestic and international prices to support strategic planning. Additionally, the city encourages organizations and associations to promote trade, expand markets and support businesses in producing within value chains with the goal of building a brand for Can Tho’s shrimp products.