Tra fish export could hit 2 billion USD in 2024: Workshop

Vietnam’s tra fish export could reach the set target of 2 billion USD this year driven by industry improvements, heard a workshop held in Cao Lanh city, the Mekong Delta province of Dong Thap, on November 17.

A report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Directorate of Fisheries said the total tra fish farming area is estimated at 5,370 hectares in 2024, with an expected harvest of 1.67 million tonnes. As of October, Vietnam shipped 1.56 billion USD worth of tra fish abroad, a year-on-year increase of 8.9%.

Deputy General Secretary of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers To Thi Tuong Lan said limited supply of raw materials that may extend to the first quarter of 2025 could present an opportunity for businesses to improve export prices during the year-end peak season.

She said robust signs for the industry include a reduction in inventory in key markets, the US’s economic recovery, and growth opportunities in traditional and smaller markets.

As the fisheries sector aims to produce some 1.65 million tonnes of tra fish and gain 2 billion USD in export revenue next year, it will continue to improve the quality of fries, better disease resistance, and reduce dependency on fishmeal by using plant-based and alternative feed ingredients. Additionally, the pilot of the recirculation aquaculture system and development of the Vietnamese tra fish brand through advanced technology, quality control and certifications related to food safety, environmental safety, and Halal standards will be given due attention.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien urged ministries, sectors, and localities to develop industrial-scale farming with a focus on biosafety, tight control over antibiotic use, green production, the formation of a supply chain, and the development of potential markets.