The first half of 2024 was prosperous for the aquaculture industry of Long An province, with an estimated output of over 69,510 tons, far exceeding the plan and growing strongly compared to the same period last year.

According to statistics, in the first 6 months of the year, the total area of aquaculture in the province was estimated at 5,543 hectares, reaching 62% of the plan and equal to 102% over the same period; cage farming was 2,500 m3, equal to 92.6% over the same period; and 3,997 hectares were harvested with an output of 69,510 tons, reaching 77.2% of the plan and equal to 116% over the same period.

Specifically, the brackish water aquaculture area was estimated to reach 4,089 hectares, reaching 66.7% of the plan and equal to 101% over the same period; harvested 2,827 hectares with an output of 9,465 tons, reaching 59% of the plan and equal to 100% over the same period. The freshwater aquaculture area is estimated to reach 1,445 hectares, reaching 51.6% of the plan and equal to 105.5% over the same period; harvested 1,170 hectares with a total farming output of 60,045 tons, reaching 81.2% of the plan and totalling 119% over the same period.

In aquaculture activities, there is a major contribution from commercial pangasius farming. From the beginning of the year until now, the consumption situation of pangasius has been favourable, and the price of pangasius has increased, fluctuating from 26,000 to 27,000 VND/kg. To date, total pangasius production is estimated at 52,000 tons, an increase of 21.2% over the same period in 2023.

The Department of Livestock, Veterinary, and Fisheries of Long An Province said that from the beginning of 2024 until now, the aquaculture situation in the province has been relatively stable, with few epidemics and consumption situations, aquaculture has a positive trend toward change. However, the industry also recommends that people pay attention to weather issues and closely monitor diseases to avoid affecting harvest output.

In addition, Long An authority encourages people to develop aquaculture associated with processing, creating high-added value. Prioritize farming for advantageous aquatic species and gradually expand farming areas.