Fishermen in the central province of Quảng Bình have seen good catches from the first trawling expeditions of the year. Boat owners are now preparing for their upcoming trips. Aside from good catches, fishermen are seeing better profits thanks to low fuel prices.
"Since gas prices have dropped, I can save around 500 US Dollars per expedition. We’re so excited about our business." - Le Thang, Bao Ninh Commune, Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Prov.
"The fishermen are very happy. Before, each expedition cost 2,300 USD. Now it has dropped to only 1,500 USD." - Tran Trung Tuyen, Bao Ninh Commune, Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Prov.
With stable profits, boat owners have a financial source to pay their workers. Fishermen are no longer worried about a shortage of labour for offshore fishing after Tet.
"Workers on the fishing boats benefit from lower fuel prices, so they feel better about the business. Compared with previous years of high fuel prices, labour this year is stable." - Le Minh Phu, Vice Head, Dept. of Fisheries Resources Exploitation & Protection, Quang Binh Province.
With nearly 4 thousand ships and boats, including 60 newly-built vessels with a capacity of over 500 CV, Quang Binh is the leading central province in the fishing industry. Lower fuel prices are continuing to encourage fishermen to venture offshore.
