The Netherlands Embassy in Vietnam, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, organized a business forum on November 27 to cooperate on the implementation of practical solutions for sustainable aquaculture in the Mekong Delta.
It was an opportunity for both Vietnam and the Netherlands to discuss the potential for cooperation in sustainable aquaculture in the Mekong Delta, focusing on implementing practical solutions, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting technology transfer.
Daniel Stork, Consul General of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized that the Netherlands is ready to provide specific solutions and designs to address the challenges faced by Vietnamese aquaculture farmers. He highlighted that aquaculture plays a significant role in Vietnam’s socio-economic development, especially in the Mekong Delta, which represents 70% of the country’s aquatic product production.
Through the cooperation mechanism, Vietnam and the Netherlands can utilize the necessary resources to equip farmers with the knowledge and technologies needed to develop their livelihoods while ensuring long-term environmental protection. The participation of stakeholders from both public and private sectors is essential, according to the Consul General.
The event brought together business managers, experts from institutes, schools, and partners from both countries to discuss two main topics: the epidemic triangle in aquaculture and the exchange of experiences and ideas for cooperation projects. They also explored practical solutions adapted to the current situation in the Mekong Delta.
During the event, a representative from the Fisheries Department suggested that the Netherlands cooperate with Vietnam in sustainable aquaculture practices, focusing on water resource management, circular economic models, advanced technology transfer, variety selection programs, and training to enhance skills and market development. The goal is to minimize the impact of climate change on the sector.
The Mekong Delta aims to make the fishing industry one of the region’s key economic sectors. In 2023, the country’s aquatic product exports reached $9.2 billion, with 57.6% coming from the Mekong Delta.
However, according to Phùng Duc Tiên, while the sector has benefits, aquaculture in the Mekong Delta also faces significant challenges, including issues related to climate change, saltwater intrusion, environmental pollution, and biodiversity loss.
Source : lecourrier
