December 14, 2004

 

 

Vietnam Ready to Become Key Exporter of Ostrich Meat

 

Vietnam is geared up to become the next big exporter of ostrich meat. After almost ten years of research and experiment, the country's farmers finally see their hard work bear fruit.

 

It started with two ostrich eggs from Australia in 1995. Three years later, 150 African birds were donated to Vietnam's Agriculture Ministry.

 

They adapted well to the local climate, and a promising start was established when 37 chicks were hatched.

 

Vietnam's Institute for Husbandry has since produced 3,000 ostrich breeds.

 

"Our trials showed that the climate and geographical conditions in Vietnam are suitable for ostrich rearing. By raising ostriches for a livelihood, farmers are able to escape from poverty," said Hoang Van Loc from the Institute for Husbandry.

 

Scientists say ostriches are easy to breed, have high resistance to disease and can be fed simply with mixed bran and grass.

 

"I have about 45 ostriches on my farm. When I first bought them, they each weighed about 25 kg. After a year, they grew to about 150 kg. It's not that difficult to raise ostriches; it's just like rearing cows," said ostrich farmer Tran Van Tong.

 

The ostrich, the world's largest bird, is considered of high economic value.

 

Their meat, eggs and skin are all sought-after products in the world market.

 

A kilogram of meat sells for about US$20 while the same amount of young ostrich feathers can fetch up to US$2,000.

 

Their skin is in high demand for making quality footwear, wallets, coats and belts.

 

Vietnam's success has prompted its neighbour Laos to order thousands of birds to start its own breeding programme.