Ministry moves to tackle aquatic animal diseases

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has approved a national plan on monitoring diseases on shrimp and tra fish for export in 2017-2020.

Shrimp testing in a factory of Ninh Thuan province.

The plan is to improve the quality of prevention and warning of diseases affecting aquatic animals, contributing to sustainable shrimp and tra fish farming and boosting exports.

It has a total cost of over VND106 billion (US$4.6 million), including VND77 billion (US$3.4 million) from the State budget and the rest from localities and businesses.

The plan is carried out in all major shrimp-raising provinces such as Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan and Bac Lieu.

In 2017, aquatic animal health officials at all levels will receive training on disease monitoring. Test laboratories meeting ISO 17025 standard and the World Organisation for Animal Health’s process will be used for testing.

The plan is expected to increase shrimp and tra fish exports and raise locals’ income, contributing to ensuring social welfare and food security as well as maintaining the natural environment.