In a groundbreaking partnership promising to shape the future of aquaculture practices in the region, FAI Farms has joined forces with Can Tho University to advance shrimp welfare in Vietnam.
Welfare remains poorly understood despite the extent and importance of shrimp farming to Vietnam and other Asian countries. Through this pioneering collaboration, FAI Farms and Can Tho University aim to progress the science, set new standards, and foster sustainable practices in the Vietnamese aquaculture industry.
The partnership was formalized during a dedicated welfare session at the 11th (IFS) held in Bangkok in November. FAI Farms signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Can Tho University, outlining a comprehensive plan to test and improve how shrimp welfare is assessed and managed in Vietnam.
“This work is focused on whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) welfare on Vietnamese trial farms using our industry-leading welfare assessment protocol,†explained FAI Farms Aquaculture Project Manager, Marius Nicolini. “By involving Vietnamese scientists, we are using the strength of collaboration to increase understanding and influence practices related to shrimp welfare. It will play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable and ethical farming methods within the Vietnamese aquaculture industry.
“Engaging farmers in discussions about welfare is not always straightforward or easy, and it requires them to view their animals from a new perspective. It’s vital for them to remember when animals are living their best lives, they also achieve higher and better-quality levels of production.â€
The dynamics of the fish farming market in Asia differ significantly from other regions globally, and FAI Farms believes cooperation between countries is crucial to improve welfare.
“By tailoring welfare practices to the unique conditions in Asia, the region can emerge as a leading advocate for exemplary fish and shrimp care on a global scale,†concluded Marius.
