While China is applying stricter conditions on imported agricultural, seafood, and forestry products, the country is turning away from lobster exports through unofficial channels from Vietnam.
Vietnam accounted for just eight percent of China’s 32,358 tonnes of lobster, valued at USD962 million, in the first seven months of this year.
According to local lobster exporters, China has turned to importing lobsters from Canada, the US, New Zealand, Cuba, India, Brazil, and Mexico due to their clear origins and better prices.
On September 22, China refused to accept six tonnes of lobsters from Vietnamese exporters at Mong Cai Border Gate due to disease prevention issues.
To maintain a foothold in the Chinese market, which is still the biggest market for Vietnamese lobster sellers, it is necessary to create an official channel for export, VASEP suggested.
"Farmers should co-operate with traders to define product origin and then seek necessary certificates from local authorities to export their products," VASEP said.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has just announced a plan for lobster farming and exports by 2025 with annual output of 3,000 tonnes and export revenues of USD 200 million. The three provinces of Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, and Kien Giang will be the main hub for lobster farming.
