May 21, 2004

Fund For Vietnam Aquaculture Risks To Be Set Up

Vietnam's Ministry of Fisheries has asked shrimp raising localities to discuss the establishment of a fund to help farmers cope with risks in aquaculture, particularly the sterilisation of shrimp ponds after disease.

Individuals and organisations can contribute to the fund on a voluntary basis and all issues relating to the fund's establishment, leadership and working rules will be decided through transparent discussion of its members.

Aquaculture in Viet Nam currently focuses on shrimp raising, but high risks of diseases still remain in the field, due to a lack of control in shrimp breeding and raising techniques.

The Fisheries Ministry has called for increased control in shrimp breeding with strict technical and quality regulations. The ministry will also develop plans for shrimp raising and technical instructions for farmers.