Soc Trang’s brackish water shrimp production ranks third among provinces in Vietnam

In the first 10 months of 2024, Soc Trang's total aquaculture area reached 71,848 hectares, a modest increase of 0.18%. The estimated output for the year was 358,270 tons, marking a 3.28% rise compared to 2023. Brackish water shrimp, a key product, ranked third in Vietnam for both total area and yield in 2023, producing 206,334 tons across 53,511.3 hectares.

According to Mrs. Quach Thi Thanh Binh, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Soc Trang, the fisheries sector has experienced rapid and robust growth. Seafood production increased from 68,514 tons in 2013 to 206,334 tons in 2023, with intensive and semi-intensive shrimp farming accounting for 90% of the area. However, this growth has led to challenges such as environmental degradation, disease outbreaks, and excessive chemical use. Additionally, a portion of the population still practices small-scale shrimp farming, often with limited technical knowledge and poor adherence to environmental regulations, contributing to water pollution.

A study by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment revealed that shrimp farming waste in Soc Trang is substantial, generating 4.81–6.93 million m³ of wastewater and 433.2–563.1 million m³ of sludge annually. If not properly managed, these waste products could cause significant environmental harm.

To address these issues, Soc Trang is focused on raising awareness and enhancing the capabilities of shrimp farmers in environmental protection. Efforts include various outreach initiatives and the development of effective farming models. Notably, the "Application of Biogas Systems for Wastewater Treatment in Brackish Water Shrimp Farming" project, led by ActionAid International in Vietnam, aims to implement 150 biogas systems in the province between 2024 and 2026. Additionally, the "Integrated Shrimp Farming" model by GIZ has been introduced at two sites in the province. These efforts are part of a broader strategy that includes the application of advanced farming methods such as the two- and three-phase farming process, VietGAP-compliant practices, biofloc technology, and integrated aquaculture. The use of high-density farming with plastic-lined ponds is also helping to boost shrimp yields per unit area.

The agriculture sector in Soc Trang is also prioritizing digital transformation, incorporating automated monitoring systems and feed optimization technologies to reduce labor and waste. The integration of nano-oxygen systems aims to improve environmental resilience in shrimp farming.

Deputy Director Quach Thi Thanh Binh emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, businesses, and communities in improving waste treatment, promoting sustainability, and enhancing water management. Other key priorities include the management and conservation of native aquatic species, better use of aquatic seed sources resilient to climate change, and strict regulation of imported species. Raising awareness among aquaculture farmers about environmental protection, legal compliance, and quality standards is also crucial for sustainable development.

Additionally, strengthening monitoring, inspections, and enforcement of environmental protection regulations in aquaculture, as well as supporting education, communication, research, and the transfer of sustainable aquaculture technologies, are essential steps toward long-term growth and sustainability.