The Viet Nam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) revealed that the marine products industry may face a tough new year, as exports are predicted to drop by about one quarter. The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Cao Duc Phat said that last year, the Government started granting subsidies to fishermen to help with high fuel prices and to upgrade ships. At the same time, the Government asked all relevant authorities to increase marine products consumption.
Due to slash in demand in international markets the exports ad prices of many major Vietnamese marine products may decrease. Cao Duc Phat informed that the government is taking new measures to support the industry. Besides, the Government has also ensured a stable capital source for farmers to maintain their aquafarms and keep their incomes. The government realize that an international standard system for food hygiene and quality management is very important.
It is informed that presently the expenditures for aquafarming production have gone down. Even though the opportunities for marine product exporters are still exist.The most important thing for Vietnamese enterprises at this time is that they increase their competitive ability, expand markets, and maintain their current levels of export and turnover.
It is fact that the market demands have changed due to the economic situation. Therefore, farmers need to know what the market wants. The ministry will set up an information system. The ministry also knows that the food price for shrimp and fish is still high but we can’t give the order to lower prices.
