Tuna fishermen face challenges

However, will Vietnam’s fishing crews and processors be sufficiently aware of the TPP’s contents so they can benefit from the opportunities while being sufficiently prepared for the challenges posed by more advanced and efficient economies.

Japan is the main tuna export market of Vietnam. However, tuna exports from Vietnam to Japan face a 7.2% tax. Whereas Thailand and the Philippines benefit from zero tariffs, a situation that could change in the post-TPP period.

Tuna production from Binh Dinh, Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa provinces saw around 9,800 tonnes of tuna during peak season. According to fishermen, in order to make a profit, trawlers need to catch between one and half to 2 tonnes in each fishing trip. However, only a few fishing vessels can achieve this. This doesn’t even include issues to do with the quality of the catches which also lead to poorer incomes.

Technical issues as how to ensure quantity and quality at the same time, remain the big questions.