Aquaculture Vietnam 2024 focuses on fishermen affected by storm no. 3

On September 10 in Ho Chi Minh City, the Vietnam Fisheries Association (VINAFIS), in collaboration with the International Collaboration Center for Sustainable Aquaculture and Fishing (ICAFIS) and Informa Markets, held a press conference to announce details about the upcoming international fisheries exhibition, Aquaculture Vietnam 2024.

According to Nguyen Viet Thang, Chairman of VINAFIS, Vietnam’s fisheries sector has seen strong growth in the first eight months of the year, in line with the industry’s strategic goals. By August 2024, aquaculture and fishery output had exceeded 5.5 million tons, while seafood exports reached over USD 6.2 billion. Given the sector’s performance and export growth, Vietnam is on track to surpass its seafood export revenue target for 2024.

However, Storm No. 3 (Yagi) caused widespread destruction in northern provinces, especially in coastal areas like Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, and Nam Dinh, where aquaculture cages sustained major damage.

“The Quang Ninh and Hai Phong fisheries associations reported that 99% of aquaculture farms were wiped out by Storm Yagi. Boats were either swept away or sunk, and aquaculture cages, oyster farms, and mollusk farms were all destroyed. It’s heartbreaking. Fishermen are currently facing extreme hardship. As a result, the seminars at this exhibition will focus on recovery efforts for aquaculture post-storm, offering guidance on sustainable, long-term farming practices in areas less vulnerable to natural disasters,” said Nguyen Viet Thang.

He also noted that a letter had been sent calling on fisheries associations from different provinces and cities to support the affected fishermen. Additionally, during the exhibition, the organizers will propose that the Vietnam Fisheries Humanitarian Fund seek donations for those impacted by Storm No. 3.

Aquaculture Vietnam 2024 expected to welcome 4,000 visitors

Thang further shared that Aquaculture Vietnam brings together leading companies and corporations with extensive expertise in fisheries, both from Vietnam and around the world, to drive progress in the sector, particularly aquaculture.

Rungphech (Rose) Chitanuwat, ASEAN Project Director at Informa Markets, said that the first Aquaculture Vietnam was held in 2016. The event has since helped visitors access the full seafood value chain, from aquaculture and fishing to processing. Aquaculture Vietnam 2024 will feature over 100 exhibitors and is expected to attract approximately 4,000 visitors from over 20 countries and territories.

“This event brings together leaders and experts from the fisheries industry worldwide, fostering collaboration, innovation, and shaping the sector’s future. In addition, it will present solutions aimed at promoting innovation and sustainable growth in aquaculture, especially in the face of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Chitanuwat remarked.

The exhibition will also host the 6th International Aquaculture Conference, themed “Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Promoting a Green Economy in Aquaculture,” with five key sessions.

One of the highlights of the event will be the Biosecurity Asia Forum, focusing on strategies and implementation methods for biosecurity, a core value of sustainable aquaculture and livestock farming.

“This is a valuable opportunity for aquaculture businesses and households to exchange knowledge and learn from each other. It also allows businesses to better connect with target customers and enhance brand recognition,” said a representative from Informa Markets.