Deputy PM urges seafood policy review

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh yesterday called for a review of the nation's policies on aquaculture, seafood processing and support for offshore fishing.

Chairing a meeting on fisheries development in Ha Noi, he asked relevant ministries and State agencies to suggest appropriate revisions to the policies so that timely amendments can be made.

He also asked them to improve logistics for the fisheries industry, reorganise funding to make it more efficient, and initiate easier access to preferential credit of offshore fishermen.

A modern centre with shipbuilding and ship repair services should also be considered, Ninh said.

Over the last two decades, seafood production has emerged as one of Viet Nam's key industries, enjoying rapid growth and earning significant export revenues. 

The industry has helped create jobs for four million workers and helped improve the lives of people while contributing to the national security of islands and sea territories, the meeting heard.

Speakers at the meeting said that Viet Nam was on the right track to become a leading country in tra fish farming and export. The country already ranks third in shrimp production and is listed among the world's four largest seafood exporters.

Viet Nam's seafood products are now available in 160 countries and territories, the meeting heard. — VNS