Despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, shrimp exports by provinces in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam have been strong this year thanks to efforts made by both authorities and businesses.
According to the Ca Mau Province Department of Industry and Trade, exports in the first five months are estimated at more than U.S.$423 million, a year-on-year increase of 16%.
Bac Lieu Province’s revenues were up 9% at $280 million.
Nguyen Minh Tuan of Minh Cuong Seafood Import-Export JSC, an old operator in the shrimp industry, said his company’s shrimp exports grew sharply this year, and it was scrupulously implementing COVID prevention measures at its factory.
Many shrimp farmers in the delta continue to expand production since they earn good incomes.
Pham Van Quan of My Long Nam Commune in Tra Vinh Province’s Cau Ngang District, said: “A few months ago, a kilogram of black tiger shrimp fetched VND200,000-220,000 ($8.7-9.6), but now it has decreased to VND170,000 ($7.4), and white-leg shrimp is priced at VND130,000 – 140,000 ($5.7-6.1). But farmers still make a profit.”
According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, exports were worth $ 3.27 billion in the first five months, up 14% year-on-year.
Shrimp exports accounted for $1.33 billion, an increase of 14%.
The exports went to over 120 markets, with the United States, Japan, the EU, China, Korea, ASEAN and Australia being the largest markets, it said.
The Yomiuri Shimbun