Thai shrimp production is estimated to have reached about 540 000 tonnes in 2009, an increase of 9% compared with 2008, while total exports of shrimp in the first ten months of 2009 grew 8% in terms of value. This contrasts with the announcements made at the beginning of 2009 that the Thai shrimp sector would cut its production by 20% to 396 000 tonnes, in order to cope the international crisis. However, Thai shrimp exporters managed to gain market share in the US benefitting from the supply problems suffered by Indonesia, the US second supplier. According to the Thai Shrimp Association, the forecast for 2010 is for a similar level of production, although national authorities are aiming for a 5% growth rate.
Packers in southern Viet Nam faced a serious raw material shortage during the fourth quarter of 2009 as farming in the Mekong Delta fell by 30% compared with 2008. Raw material prices increased by 10-15% and many packers operated 30-50% below their production capacity. November-March is the low season for farmed shrimp in Viet Nam, with the new season only commencing in April. For many farmers, the supply outlook is still bleak because of lack of access to finance. However, the industry forecast predicts a better supply situation in 2010.
