In May 2023, the livestock sector has experienced a recovery thanks to a significant increase in pork prices, while the fisheries sector has regained its growth momentum. However, the forestry sector is facing a situation where the area of forest fires has increased nearly 12 times compared to the same period last year…
Fisheries Production Increases Moderately, Favorable Livestock Sector According to the latest data released by the General Statistics Office, in May 2023, the agriculture sector showed stable development, including several sectors that are recovering and experiencing growth, such as livestock and fisheries…
- Fisheries production in May 2023 is estimated at 783.3 thousand tons, an increase of 2.1% compared to the same period last year, including: fish reaching 566.4 thousand tons (up 2.2%); shrimp reaching 100.3 thousand tons (up 2%); other seafood reaching 116.6 thousand tons (up 1.7%).
- Aquaculture production in May 2023 is estimated at 421 thousand tons, an increase of 2.5% compared to the same period last year, including: fish reaching 284.5 thousand tons, up 2.3%; shrimp estimated at 87.6 thousand tons, up 2.2%.
- The harvest of tra fish in May 2023 increased compared to the same period last year because the majority of tra fish farming areas currently belong to businesses with closed production cycles, which helps maintain profitability even though the price of raw tra fish in the month decreased compared to the previous month. The estimated tra fish production in the month is 145.6 thousand tons, an increase of 1% compared to the same period last year.
“Overall, in the first 5 months of 2023, seafood production is estimated at 3,420.3 thousand tons, an increase of 1.4% compared to the same period last year, including: fish reaching 2,509 thousand tons, up 1.4%; shrimp reaching 385.8 thousand tons, up 1.9%; other seafood reaching 525.5 thousand tons, up 0.8%.”
According to the General Statistics Office:
- Shrimp production in May 2023 increased compared to the same period last year due to the effective implementation of white-legged shrimp farming models and efficient semi-intensive farming. White-legged shrimp production is estimated at 58.8 thousand tons, up 2.3% compared to the same period last year; black tiger shrimp production is estimated at 22.6 thousand tons, up 1.8%.
- Fishery exploitation in May 2023 is estimated at 362.3 thousand tons, an increase of 1.8% compared to the same period last year, due to favorable fishing conditions and stable fuel prices compared to the previous year, resulting in positive changes in exploitation activities.
- Fishery exploitation includes: fish reaching 281.9 thousand tons, up 2.2%; shrimp reaching 12.7 thousand tons, up 0.8%, other seafood reaching 67.7 thousand tons, up 0.1%. Marine fishery exploitation is estimated at 346.9 thousand tons, up 1.6% compared to the same period last year. Along with the fisheries sector, the livestock sector is showing promising signs of recovery. After experiencing a slight decline in pig prices below 50,000 dong/kg, in May 2023, the prices of pork have significantly increased, reaching 80,000 dong/kg, contributing to the recovery of the livestock sector.
The livestock sector, particularly pig farming, has faced various challenges in recent years, including outbreaks of African swine fever that resulted in significant losses and a decrease in pig production. However, efforts to control the disease and improve biosecurity measures have led to a gradual recovery.
In May 2023, the average live weight of market pigs reached 102.4 kilograms, an increase of 2.7% compared to the same period last year. The total pig production in May is estimated at 381.8 thousand tons, an increase of 6.6% compared to the same period last year.
The increase in pork prices can be attributed to several factors. First, the demand for pork has been steadily increasing, driven by population growth and rising incomes. Additionally, the implementation of stricter regulations on food safety and hygiene has led to a reduction in illegal and unregulated pig farming, which has positively impacted the overall market supply and quality of pork.
The recovery of the livestock sector is encouraging for farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole. It not only provides income opportunities for farmers but also contributes to food security and the stability of the domestic market.
However, it’s important to note that challenges remain in the agricultural sector, particularly in the forestry sector. The area affected by forest fires has increased significantly, posing a threat to the environment, biodiversity, and local communities. Efforts are being made to combat and prevent forest fires, including enhancing fire prevention measures, raising public awareness, and improving monitoring and early warning systems.
In conclusion, while the fisheries and livestock sectors in Vietnam have shown positive signs of recovery and growth, challenges persist in the forestry sector. Continued efforts are needed to ensure sustainable agricultural practices, enhance food security, and protect the environment.