(vasep.com.vn) So far in 2014, tuna exports has been targeted to major markets such as the US, EU and Japan, aiming to earn approximately US$ 560 million. However, to achieve this goal, standard processes must be strictly followed.
Quality decides prices
Approximately 3,500 vessels participate in tuna capture in Binh Dinh, Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa, with the average annual catch of over 16,000 MT. In 2013, tuna exports in these provinces was US$ 527 million.
Using new technology from Japan, in August 2014, a number of fishermen in Binh Dinh province caught 37 tuna, only 9 of which was auctioned in Japan at the average price of VND 437,000/kg.
This reveals that not all kind of tuna can be exported. The criteria include fishing techniques and storage technology to maintain high quality for the fish. This can only be achieved if standard processes must be strictly followed.
Technically, preserving principle is to keep the fish at low temperatures. Organs, eyes and blood must quickly be removed from the fish within 2-5 minutes. Frozen tuna is transported for consumption within 10 days.
Not complying the process means being disqualified. Tuna has high demand in Japan, which opens opportunities for Vietnam if quality is ensured.
Opening "Tuna Trading Center"
In order to increase the value of the tuna for export to Japan, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development decided to invest VND 1,200 billion in tuna supply chain scheme in Binh Dinh, Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa. From 2014 to 2020, productivity, quality, value of tuna export will be focused.
Three tuna fishing ports in Binh Dinh, Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa as well as a tuna trading center in Khanh Hoa were suggested to be built from 2014 to 2018 with total budget of VND 550 billion. These recommendations were approved by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
These are considered as efforts to promote Vietnam tuna exports in Japan, the US and EU.