(vasep.com.vn) In 2013, Khanh Hoa province exported its tuna to 14 markets with export turnover of US$97 million, down 45 percent in volume and 62 percent in value over 2012. In the year, together with decline in tuna export price, the market share of Khanh Hoa tuna in importing markets was slashed.
The decline in tuna exports of the province in 2013 was attributable to reduction in tuna quality. Local fishermen have shifted to tuna handlines using lights, helping rise in tuna landings but resulting in lower quality catches. Tunas caught by the province are cooked or canned to export; tunas in whole round fail to meet requirements for exporting.
To improve the province's tuna export value in 2014, the State will strengthen management of tuna sector, invest more in technologies used in tuna catching, processing. Competent authorities will build new fishing vessels only used for tuna fishing instead of using for catching other species.
At mid November 2013, VASEP held a meeting to introduce its Tuna Council with the participation of 22 tuna processors and exporters, making up 90 percent of the country's total tuna export turnover. The council aims to promote the cooperation among its members in order to raise the value and quality of Vietnam tuna products. Besides, VASEP Tuna Council helps its members share mutual benefit, ensure the supply of raw material, find importing markets and overcome trade barriers.
In 2014, the province is expected to catch 3,000 MT of raw tuna and export US$200 million of tuna products.