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Vienam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers(VASEP)
Agricultural Publishing HouseHanoi - 2012
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Content
INTRODUCTION.................................................................... 5
1 In which provinces of Vietnam have Pangasiusbeen raising? 7
2 What are species of Pangasius in Vietnam? 8
3 When does the Pangasius rearing exist inVietnam? 9
4 What are scientific and commercial names ofVietnamese Pangasius? 10
5 What are biology characteristics of Tra and Basafish? 11
6 What are nutritious value of Pangasius? 13
7 How many countries/territories do they accept andconsume Pangasius originated from Vietnam? 14
8 How do the foreign consumers appreciateVietnamese Pangasius products? 15
9 How are Pangasius breeding stock produced andselected? 16
10 What are farming techniques of Pangasius inMekong River Delta in Vietnam? 19
11 Which standards have been applying in Pangasiusfarms in Vietnam? 23
12 How does the Vietnamese Government control thewater source quality for Pangasius farming and whatare the results? 24
13 Have Pangasius farms been inspected and certified? 27
14 What kinds of feeds are used in Pangasiusfarming? What are relevant regulations on feedcontrol? 28
15 How can the chemicals and antibiotics be used inaquaculture? 30
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16 Which models of Pangasius organic farming havebeen applied in Vietnam? 34
17 Which models are applied to link together fisheryprocessing establishments for export in Vietnam? 36
18 How can we do to ensure that harvested fish forprocessing are totally free of antibiotics residues? 36
19 Is it required that Pangasius supplied to processingplants are alive? What are harvesting andtransportation procedures? 37
20 How many Pangasius processing establishments arethere in Vietnam? Are the processing equipments andtechnologies of these establishments advanced? 37
21 Have Vietnamese processing establishments beenapplying quality management programs and foodsafety guarantee? 38
22 Does the Vietnamese Government regulate andcarry out inspections on hygiene conditions ofPangasius processing plants? 39
23 The use of food additives in Pangasius processing, is itin compliance with requirements of importing countriesand controlled by Vietnamese competent authority? 40
24 Each Pangasius consignment intended for export istested by Vietnamese Competent Authority formicroorganism, chemicals and antibiotics residues? 41
25 Vietnam Pangasius was switched from “red list” to“yellow list” in WWF’s seafood guide for fish loversin EU countries. 42
26 Main types of products originated from Pangasius? 44
Decision promulgating the Regulation on Management ofTra fish rearing zones and establishments ..............................45
Regulation on tra fish rearing zones and establishments ........47
Regulation on Monitoring certain substances and toxicresidues thereof in animals aquatic products..........................54
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INTRODUCTION
This booklet was prepared for the readers to easyunderstand about Vietnamese Pangasius and Pangasiusindustry.
Vietnamese Pangasius are highly appreciated by localand international consumers, not only for its highnutritious value, white muscle, without horizontal bones,without smell of sediment and seaweed a little of tastelipid content, but also for its safety to all consumers inall age groups.
Vietnamese Pangasius is a species of traditional farmingby farmers in the Mekong River Delta. To meet highdemand of global and domestic consumers, after 10 yeardevelopment since 1996, fish farming area has beenexpanded nearly 6,000 hectares in 10 Mekong Deltaprovinces.
Most of fish farming area are strictly managed inaccordance with national regulations on food safety andenvironmental protection. Until June 2012, over a half offish farming area nationwide is audited and certified byinternationally sustainable standards such asGlobalGAP, AquaGAP, BAP/GAA and ASC (recentlycertified). The process of auditing and certifying forVietnamese pangasius is being carried out strictlyaccording to requirements of consumers which provedthat Vietnamese pangasius is not only loved by tastysmell with high nutritious value but it also satisfies strictrequirements of the market.
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Vietnam has nearly 70 pangasius exporting andprocessing companies in which their processing facilitiesare equipped modern equipments and controlled inaccordance with HACCP. Pangasius products are beingexported to 145 countries and territories worldwide suchas EU, the U.S., ASEAN, Canada, the Middle East, China,Japan, etc. Fish export volume and value to marketsreported steady annual growth of 10 - 18 percent, worth byUS$1.8 - 2 billion per year in two recent years.
The booklet compiled under the Q & A form provides basicknowledge of pangasius, techniques of farming andprocessing, quality management, information of importersand the government’s regulations on breeding, processingand exporting specific fish products.
Editorial BoardVietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP)Head office: 218 street No.6, Lot A, An Phu - An Khanh New UrbanArea, District 2, Hochiminh, VietnamTel: (+84 8) 6281 0430 / Fax: (+84 8) 6281 0438Email: [email protected]
Rep. office: 10 Nguyen Cong Hoan street, Ngoc Khanh Ward, BaDinh, Ha Noi, VietnamTel: (+84.4) 3771 5055; Fax: (+84.4) 3771 5084E-mail: [email protected] - www.vasep.com.vn
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1 In which provinces of Vietnam havePangasius been raising?
Map of Pangasius aquaculture regions in Vietnam
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Pangasius have been raising and developing mostly in10 Mekong Delta River provinces of Vietnam, including:An Giang, Dong Thap, Tien Giang, Can Tho, VinhLong, Ben Tre, Hau Giang, Soc Trang, Tra Vinh, KienGiang, and two provinces (Tay Ninh and Quang Nam)with total farming area of 5,509 hectares (in 2011) andup to 13,000 hectares in 2020. Provinces of Can Tho,An Giang and Dong Thap are the leading cultureregions of Pangasius in the Mekong Delta, account forover 75% of the total national Pangasius production.
These provinces almostly are located in the lower partof Mekong River, which is divided into two mainstreams (Tien River - Mekong River and Hau River -Bassac River), connected to a huge number of riversand canals, where are living a various of aquatic plantsand animals, producing abundant feeds source.
2 What are species of Pangasiusin Vietnam?
Following are fish belong to Pangasiidae family (Trafamilly) with Vietnamese name:
Helicophagus waandersii - Ca Tra chuot Pangasius gigas - Ca Tra dau Pangasius kunyit - Ca Tra ban Pangasius hypophthalmus - Ca Tra nuoi Pangasius micronema - Ca Tra Pangasius larnaudii - Ca Vo dem Pangasius sanitwongsei - Ca Vo co Pangasius bocourti - Ca Basa Pangasius macronema - Ca Xac soc Pangasius pleurotaenia - Ca Xac bau
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Pangasius conchophilus - Ca Hu Pangasius polyuranodon - Ca Dua Pangasius krempfi - Ca Bong lau
12 species among 13 as mentioned above belong toPangasius family and one to Helicophasus family.However, two species of Pangasius hypophthalmus(Tra) and Pangasius bocourti (Basa) have beenculturing and developing in Vietnam.
3 When does the Pangasius rearing exist inVietnam?
Pangasius rearing has traditionally been carried out inthe Southern of Vietnam since the 1950s. Tra fish canbe reared in pond or cage and Basa fish mainly in cage.
Cage rearing was originated from Tonlesap ofCambodia and have initially been applied in Chau Doc,Tan Chau (An Giang province) and Hong Ngu (DongThap province) since 1950s by repatriate Vietnamese.With the advancement and completion of experienceand techniques, cage rearing became complete andstable. The greatest number of cages in 2004 was2,333 units. Up to April, 2009, the number of cages wasjust over 100 units.
Rearing Tra fish in pond has been started in MekongRiver Delta since 1970s and until now most of Pangasiusto process for export is used this way of aquaculture.
Where is the source of the breeding stock:
The source of Tra and Basa breeding stock initiallydepended on natural capture. Annually, at the beginning of
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lunar May, when rainwater from the upstream of theMekong River drained out, fishermen in Tan Chau (AnGiang) and Hong Ngu (Dong Thap) used a funnel shapednet, called “day” to catch fry. The later were transported toponds and reared into fingerlings with a length of 7 - 10cmwhich were then sold to farmers in the whole Southernregions to be raised in pond or cage. Hatcheries weremostly located in Tan Chau, Chau Doc, Hong Ngu andislands of Tien River, such as Long Khanh, Phu Thuan.During the 1960s and 1970s, number of annually caughtfry varied from 500 to 800 millions individuals, and offingerlings from 70 to 120 millions.
Researches on artificial propagation of Pangasius inVietnam were respectively undertaken in 1978 and1990. The first successful artificial propagation hadbeen done in May 1995 in laboratory of Can ThoUniversity, under the framework of joint researchbetween the “Centre de coopération Internationale enRecherche Agronomique pour le Développement”(CIRAD) - France, University of Can Tho and FisheriesImport and Export Joint Stock Company (AGIFISH Co.).Until 1999, as Vietnam became active and socialized theartificial propagation of Tra and Basa breeding stock, thewild fry catching had been stopped. Since then,Pangasius culture in Vietnam becomes stable and havebeen dramatically increased. Pangasius productionreached to 1,4 millions tons by the end of 2011.
4 What are scientific and commercial names ofVietnamese Pangasius?
The two following species are mainly reared in Vietnam:
Pangasius hypophthalmus
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Other scientific names: Pangasius sutchi, Helicophagushypophthalmus, Pangasiusmacronemus.
Common names: Tra, Swai, Sutchi catfish, Stripedcatfish, Silver striped catfish
Vietnamese name: Tra
Pangasius bocourtiOther scientific names: Pangasius pangasiusCommon names: Basa, basa fish, bocourti,
Bocourti fish, Bocourti catfish.Vietnamese name: Basa.
5 What are biology characteristics of Tra andBasa fish?
Pangasius hypophthalmus - Tra
Tra is a fish with long body, grey black back, little whitebelly, big mouth and two pairs of barbells. The raisingperiod varies from 6 to 8 months to reach the weight of0,8 - 1,3 kg/fish. Tra fish mainly live in fresh water butalso in blackish water (with salinity percent of 7 - 10‰),can bear in alum water (with pH level > 5), in hottempreture up to 39oC but be easily died at tempreturebelow 15oC. The volume of red corpuscles in Tra fishare much more than other fish. As the fish has anaccessory respiratory organ and can also breathe with
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air bladder and skin, they can bear in the water lackingdissolved oxygen. The oxygen consumption and activitylevel of Tra fish is three times lower that the ones of asilver barb.
Pangasius bocourti - Basa
Basa is also a fish with long body. The standard length ofthe body is equivalent to 2.5 times of the height of thebody. It has a short, slight round and flat head, a wideforehead and a small mouth of which the width is lessthan 10% of the standard length and which is lightlyaskew the snout. Its teeth of the lower jaw are big andwide and can be seen when the mouth is close. It hastwo pair of barbells, the length of the pair at upper jaw isequal to the one of the head, and the whiskers are longto or over the end of pectoral fin. It has big eyes, bellyand spleen, the back side of the body is flat, the backand the head have the grey green colour, and the bellyhas the silver-white colour. The height of the tail-end ismore than 7% of the standard length of the body. Theraising period varied from 10 to 13 months to reachcommercial weight of 1 - 1.5 kg/fish.
As Basa fish has no accessory respiratory organ andrequires an oxygen level higher than the one of Tra fish, itcan poorly bear in water with low dissolved oxygen level.Basa mainly live in freshwater, can lightly bear in brackishwater and in alum water with pH level > 5,5. Thesupported tempreture is from 18 - 40oC and the minimumoxygen level is about 1,1 mg/litre. In general, Basa fishcan not support in severe environmental conditions asmuch as Tra fish. Therefore, they are mainly raised infloating cage.
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6 What are nutritious value of Pangasius?
Pangasius hypophthalmusServing size: 60 oz (170g) per pieceCalories: 124.52 calCalories from fat: 30.84Total fat: 3.42gSaturates fat: 1.64 gCholesterol: 25.2 mgSodium: 70.6 mgTotal carbohydrate: 0gDietary fiber: 0gProtein: 23.42 g
Pangasius bocourtiServing size: 60 oz (170g) per pieceCalories: 170 calCalories from fat: 60Total fat: 7 gSaturates fat: 2 gCholesterol: 22 mgSodium: 70.6 mgTotal carbohydrate: 0 gDietary fiber: 0 gProtein: 28 g
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7 How many countries/territories do theyaccept and consume Pangasius originatedfrom Vietnam?
Vietnamese Pangasius are highly appreciated by localand international consumers, not only for its whitemuscle, high nutritious value, a little of tasted lipidcontent, without horizontal bones but also for its safety,without smells of sediment and seaweed.
Importers of Vietnamese Pangasiusfrom 2001 to 2011
2001-2011 Imported Vietnam pangasius market
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2940
5162
78
101
128 130141 136
0
30
60
90
120
150
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Number of imported market
Vietnamese Pangasius products have been exportedand consumed in 5 continentals with over 140 countriesand territories:
- EU (26/27 member countries: Spain, Germany,the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, France, UnitedKingdom,...).
- Eastern Euprope (Russia, Ukraine, Romania,Polland,...).
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- North America (USA, Canada).- South America (Venuzuela, Panama, Uruguay,
Brazil, Argentina...)- ASEAN countries (Thailand, Singapore,
Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia,...).- China mainland and Hong Kong (China)- Asia (Korea, Japan, Mongolia, Taiwan, India...).- Australia.- Middle East - North Africa (Egypt, UAE, Morocco,
Saudi Arabia, Iran, Israel,...).
8 How do the foreign consumers appreciateVietnamese Pangasius products?
“It tastes better than catfish and America consumers havevalidated that. It’s Basa. Call it that and take pride in whata good product it is” - John Stamell, Director of Stamell &Associates, US
“... As might be expected in an are where fired catfish isalmost a staple, they preferred fried to baked, whateverthe species, But fired Basa got better scores overall, aswell as for texture and flavour, when compared to friedlocal catfish. And baked Basa fillets got better tastescores the baked channel cats, too...” - according tostudy conducted by Dough L. Mashall, Professor offood science and technology at missisippi StateUniversity and graduate student Amit Pal.
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“It is even better than the salmon salar as its taste is soneutral, and it fits in every culinary landscape and iswelcome in every ethnic kitchen” - Herby Neubacher,Director of Vietnam Food Promotion Company.
9 How are Pangasius breeding stock producedand selected?
Farming pond and location selection:
Pond has area of 1,000 square meters-2,000 squaremeters, water’s depth level from 1.5-2 meters.Hatching pond should be located near canals, irrigationditchs where it is easy for water supply and sewerageand care control. Do not plant big trees around the pondwhich will cover the sunlight and the leaves fallingpollutes the water and environment.
Pond renovation:
Drain out of water; clean layer slop; fill spelaean ofcrabs, frogs, rats, eels; repair border; cut the grasssurrounding the pond bank to prevent crop pests in theperiod of stocking fries.The amount of powdered lime to scatter the pond is10-15kg per 100 square meters of pond. After spreadingthe powdered lime, the pont must be deposited for 2-3days.
Supply water into the pond and add nutrition into thewater:
After water supply flows into the ponds by aqueduct,awueduct has barrier with wire netting to prevent eggs,
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waste fish, crustacean. Water supply need to bedeposited in sedimentation pond from 5-7 days beforeflowing into the pond.
Supply the water into pond 1 day before stocking fries
In seed hatching, need to add the water with naturalfeed in the early stage for fish fries.
With pond area of 1,000 square meters: Manure 2 kgfishmeal contained 40 percent protein plus 2 kg flour soy-bean to feed fish with natural food.
Before discharging fish, check up factors of waterenvironment to ensure:
- pH: 7-8- Temperature: 28-300C- Oxygen ≥ 3mg/litre
Seed and density:
Fish stocks need to be carefully selected to ensure thequality and growth rate of fish during the raising period.They are selected from credible hatcheries with hightraceability of broodstock which can meet veterinaryand hygiene conditions as required.
The selection of fish stocks:
- The fish looks healthy, no signs of illness,scratches, misshapen fish are eliminated.Observations in fish holding tools shown that fishmove fast, near out of citellus, bright colour.
- The fish size must be equal.
- The most suitable time for stocking fries is in theearly morning and the late afternoon.
- Density: 500 pecies/square meter.
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Feed and Diet of feed: The following instructions areserved for 1 million fries.
The first week:
- Feed mixture for 1 time feeding+ flour soy bean: 300g+ flour milk: 300g- Frequency of feeding: 5 times/day at 7h, 10h,
14h, 17h, 20h.- Way to feed: dissolve the mixture and disperse
the whole surface of pond,
The second week:
- Feed 5 times per day at 7h, 10h, 14h, 17h, 20h.Feed is industrial feed flour with 40 percent ofprotein. Dosage: 0.5kg for 1 time feeding (5 timesa day equal to 2.5 kg per 1 million fries a day).Gradually increase the 20 percent amount of feedeach day (depend on fish’s feed consumingability).
- Way to feed: disolve the mixture with water andscatter the whole surface of pond.
The third week:
Use industrial feed with the protein of 35-40 percent.Times for feeding: 4 times per day (8h, 1h, 14h, 17h).Gathering fish and feeding at one position todetermine the suitable amount of feed.
From the fourth week and later:
Use floating industrial feed with protein content 30-35 percent and suit with fish’s mouth.
Fish is fed 3 times a day. Fish must be fed with feedthat is full of quantity and quality.
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In the end of fourth week, to start classifying fish todistribute them in pond with density of 150-200pecies/square meter.
Control and care:
- Prevent pests (snake, eel, waste fish, harmful fish)to penetrate into hatching pond.
- Observe the water colour in the ponds which mustbe between green and yellowish.
- When feeding fish, ensure 4 factors “quantity,quality, place, and time to help fish grow well andlimit pollution at hatching pond.
- Periodically use some bioproducts to clean thewater such as EM, Zeofish,...
- After the first rains of the rain season, usedissolved lime (settle down), about 20-30kg/1000square meter to spread the whole surface of thepond.
- Use vitamine C regularly to raise resistance for fish
- Fish seed for commercial farming must ensuretraceability and meet requirements of Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development (MARD), musthave quarantine certificate from relevant agencies.Breeding season: obey each locality’s yearlyharvest crop schedule.
10 What are farming techniques of Pangasius inMekong River Delta in Vietnam?
In Mekong River Delta in Vietnam, there are three mainfarming techniques: intensive pond, floating cage andnet-pen enclosure farming.
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Floating cages:
The cages are made from steel or wood, and have twoparts: the under-water part and the floating part. Thecages is anchored at a certain place in the river by 14tholes planted deeply into boom of the river. Thefloating part is handled at the surface of water by thesystem of many plastic tubes along the cages. Thankto the constant stream of the mekong river, fishfarming in cages enjoys favourable natural condition,with white meat meeting high standards. Floating fishvillage is the farming area established by thousands offish farming cages.
Pond farming:
The depth of pond must be at least 3 metres; regularlychange water and clean the pond. Farming fish inponds has some advantages: it is easy to control thepond’s environment, cost effectiveness, and highproduction. However, attention need to be put on waterquality and environment control.
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Net enclosure:
Net enclosure (or “Dang quang” in Vietnamese) is afarming area that has been separated in the river byfences, located near the river bank, so that the riverflows still run through the net. This way of farming isrelatively new and allows to stock higher density, aswell as harvest very good fish.
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Among which, pond farming gives highest production,while cage farming and net-pen enclosure farming givebetter flavour of fish.
Farming density:
Stocking density Average yield
Pond and Net-penenclosure
60 - 120 fish/m2 170 - 250MT/ha/crop
Floating cages 100-150 fish/m3 70 kg/m3
Advanced Farms Standards are widely applied infarming: SQF1000CM, BAP and GAP.
Since 1940-1950: farming in small farms mainly in AnGiang, Dong Thap (wild-caught fingerlings).
Since 1981-1982: Trial of intensive farming in smallpond (wild-caught fingerlings).
Since 1996-1999: intensive farming in pond and cage(wild-caught and artificial fingerlings).
Since 2001-2004: Develop farming in cage and pondwith change from self processed feed to industrial feed(artificial fingerlings).
Since 2005 so far: switch from cage farming, net enclosureto super-intensive farming pond (artificial fingerlings).
Now, Vietnam fish farmers raise fish in system ofadvanced farming ponds which meet requirements ofSQF 1000 CM (food safety and quality) as well asinternational standards and strict demand of consumerssuch as Global GAP, ASC, BAP...
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11 Which standards have been applying inPangasius farms in Vietnam?
Pangasius farms are required to meet hygiene andveterinary conditions and to be in compliance withfollowing Vietnamese regulations:
- Decision No. 130/2008/QD-BNN dated December31, 2008 of the Ministry of Agriculture and RuralDevelopment promulgating the Regulation on controlof harmful substances residues in aquaculture fishand products thereof.
- Decision No. 70/2008/QD-BNN dated June 5, 2008of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Developmentpromulgating the Regulation on management of Trarearing zones and establishments.
- The Circular No. 03/2011/TT-BNNPTNT dated January21st 2011 regulating traceability and revoking aquaticproducts which fail to ensure food safety and hygiene.
Apart from the respect of master plan of farming zones,environment and food safety aspects as required byVietnamese regulations, rearing zones andestablishments have also applying internationalstandards as required by client to ensure sustainabledevelopment with 4 criterias: food safety, environmentresponsibility, social responsibility and traceability.International standards include:
1. SQF 1000CM (Safe & Quality Food).
2. GLOBALG.A.P. (Global Good Agricultural Practice)www.globalgap.org
3. BAP (Best Aquaculture Practice).
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4. ASC (Aquaculture Sustainable Certificationwww.asc.org
5. Some other standards, VietGAP.
12 How does the Vietnamese Government controlthe water source quality for Pangasiusfarming and what are the results?
The Vietnamese Government and people living in theMekong Delta pay much attention to the food safetyissues and sustainable development of Pangasius farmingindustry. The quality of farming water becomes the firstinterest factor. The setting up of regulations andstandards, of competent authorities in charge and theoperation of Research Aquaculture Institutes andMonitoring Centers for Aquaculture environment andEpidemic are three main topics to be particularly focused.
1. Regulations and standards: Based on scientificresults of Codex, importing countries and researcheson Vietnamese conditions, the VietnameseGovernment has promulgated several effectiveregulations and standards on planning aquaculturezones and environment, quality of water source andfood hygiene conditions, etc….
Sector standard No. 28 TCN 192:2004 Floatingcage farming zones - Hygiene conditions.
The decision No. 03/2007/QĐ-BTS dated April3rd 2007 of Ministry of Fisheries issuingregulations on registering for circulation ofveterinary drugs, products of aquaticenvironment treatment and renovation.
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The decision No. 130/2008/QĐ-BNN datedDecember 31st 2008 of MARD promulgatingregulations of contaminant residue control inanimal and aquatic products.
The circular No.44/2010/TT-BNN dated July22th 2010 of MARD providing for conditions onfood safety and hygiene-guaranteed intensivepangasius -rearing establishments and zones.
The circular No.45/2010/TT-BNNPTNT datedJuly 22th 2010 providing for conditions on foodsafety and hygiene-guaranteed intensive fishfarming establishments and zones.
2. Competent authorities: in charge of statemanagement and enforcement of regulations onplanning, safe and hygiene conditions and quality offarming water source. Vietnam has a system ofcompetent agencies from central to local in charge ofimplementing state management in aquacultureCompetent authorities under the Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development (MARD) include:
a) Central level:- The National Agro-Forestry-Fisheries Quality
Assurance Department (NAFIQAD) with 6Branches nationwide.
- Department of Animal Health.- Department of Aquaculture (under Department
of Fisheries)
b) Local level:Provincial Sub-Departments of Agriculture andRural Development.
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3. Research Institutes and Monitoring Centers forAquaculture environment and Epidemic:
Monitoring Centers for Aquaculture environment andEpidemic under Research Institutes for Aquaculturehave implementing the “Surveillance and MonitoringProgram for aquaculture environment in Mekong Rivervalley” in the riverhead, middle and lower parts of theMekong River. Monitoring results showed thatparameters on the quality of farming water source (pH,turbidity, salinity, DO, BOD, NH3,...) were at tolerancelevels and met standards for freshwater fish farming.
In 2009, scientists of Aquaculture and Fisheries Group-Wageningen University (Netherlands, researchingagencies under MARD (Aquaculture Department,Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 2-RIA2), VanLang University, Can Tho University, Vinh LongDepartment of Agriculture and Rural Developmentimplemented the research “Environmental impactassessment of the pangasius sector in the MekongDelta” (see: www.pangasius-Vietnam.com).
The result of the research indicated that about 2% ofthe Mekong river water passed through the pangasiusponds. The effect on water quality was limited becausesedimentation, mineralisation, and infiltration occur inponds. The contribution of the production ponds towater pollution depends on the way farmers managetheir sludge. In the worst case, the sector contributes2.4% to the N and 3.7% to the P content of the river;while on-land sediment recovery and recycling mayreduce these to less than 0.05%. You can click the linkfor more information (http://edepot.wur.nl/8332).
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The National Monitoring Program for certain harmfulsubstances residues in aquaculture fish has beenimplementing since 2000 by NAFIQAD but contaminantsresidues (heavy metals, pesticides...) have not beendetected or been detected below MRLs in pangasiusfarming water and flesh.
Results of the above mentioned Programs show thatthe water source of the Mekong River has notbiologically and physically been polluted and is suitablefor aquaculture, in compliance with regulations on foodhygiene and safety.
The effective control of safety and hygiene conditions inaquaculture and processing of fishery products ingeneral, Pangasius in particular for export to the EUhas been recognized by the European CompetentAuthorities (Food and Veterinary Office - FVO,Directorate General for Health and Consumers) duringits recent regular inspections.
13 Have Pangasius farms been inspected andcertified?
Yes, they have!
To avoid and control the use of chemicals andantibiotics in aquaculture and pangasius farming inparticular, the NAFIQAD has implementing since 1999the National Monitoring Program for certain harmfulsubstances residues in aquaculture fish and carryingout inspections on veterinary and hygiene conditions, in
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line with Vietnamese regulations. The program ismonthly carried out. The program result has notdetected or detected below MRLs for contaminantsresidues (heavy metals, pesticides...). The Program hasregularly been inspected by competent authorities ofthe EU, USA, Canada... that gave also good evaluationon organizational structure, legislation system andpractical control.
Up to now, nearly 3,000 hectares (around 50 percent)of pangasius farming area have been receiving differentsustainable certificates: GlobalGAP, AquaGAP, BAP,SQF-1000, ASC...
14 What kinds of feeds are used in Pangasiusfarming? What are relevant regulations onfeed control?
There are actually two main kinds of feeds: commercialpelleted feed which are mostly used and home-madefresh feed.
The commercial pelleted feed means the feed which isdried and pelleted by industrial processing lines. Thefeed has been studied and rationally mixed to ensurethe nutrition for each type of species. With the feedconversation rate (FCR) of 1.4 - 1.6, the use of pelletssaves the environment.
Home-made fresh feed is made by available localmaterials (such as rice, fishmeal, soy bean, cassava…)
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which are mixed and processed. These materials arefinely ground, mixed together, cooked and cooled, andthen made into small handfuls or pressed into pellets tofeed fish.
The pellets for Pangasius need to meet requirementson the quality and veterinary hygiene, in compliancewith the Sector Standard No. 28 TCN 188:2004. TheMARD is responsible for the registration for quality,inspection of hygiene conditions at feed mills and ofquality of feeds.
Use raw materials from nature and resonably mix toensurace protein content from 15 - 20%. Some methodof mixing feed for reference.
Method 1 Method 2 Method 3
Raw material Rate(%) Raw material Rate
(%) Raw material Rate(%)
Bran 60 Bran 50 Bran 60
Small fish, fishoil, fish gut
30 Flour corn 25 Dough fish 20
Vegetable 10 Flour dried fish 15 Dry oil 10
Vegetable 10 Vegetable 10
Anticipatedprotein content(%)
15-16 15-16 16-18
Feed and additional ingredients must belong to list ofaquatic feed legally to circulate in Vietnam.
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15 How can the chemicals and antibiotics beused in aquaculture?
The use of chemicals and antibiotics, bioproducts,treated and renovated substances in aquaculture mustbelong to the list legally circulated in Vietnam.
Farms are inspected by relevant competentauthorities as regulated in the Ministry.
Circular No. 15/2009/TT-BNN dated Mach 17,2009 promulgating the lists of banned andrestricted chemicals and antibiotics.Simultaneously, they have also to applystandards on responsible farming (SQF 1000,BMP, GAP,...) and be evaluated by the thirdindependent party (SGS, IMO,…).
Circular No. 64/2010/ TT-BNN dated November11, 2010 on the removal of trifluralin containingproducts from the list of products for treatmentand improvement of the aquaculture environment,permitted to be marketed in Vietnam.
Cicular No.03/2012/ TT-BNN dated January16, 2012 on removing products containingCypermethrin, Deltamethrin from the list ofveterinary drugs and products permitted to usein treating aquaculture environment.
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1. List of chemicals and antibiotics banned for use infishery production and trading
No. Chemicals, antibiotics Applied for
1 Aristolochia spp and its by-products
Animal feed,veterinary medicines,chemicals,environmentaltreatmentsubstances,disinfectants,preservationsubstances , handcream usedin seedproduction, aquaticanimal and amphibiansculture, fisheryservices, preservationand processingactivities
2 Chloramphenicol
3 Chloroform
4 Chlorpromazine
5 Colchicine
6 Dapsone
7 Dimetridazole
8 Metronidazole
9 Nitrofuran (including Furazolidone)
10 Ronidazole
11 Green Malachite
12 Ipronidazole
13 Other Nitroimidazole
14 Clenbuterol
15 Diethylstilbestrol (DES)
16 Glycopeptides
17 Trichlorfon (Dipterex)
18 Gentian Violet (Crystal violet)
19 Fluoroquinolones
20 Trifluralin
21 Cypermethrin
22 Deltamethrin
23 Enrofloxacin
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2. List of chemicals and antibiotics bannedfor veterinary use
No. Chemicals, Antibiotics
1 Chloramphenicol (Other name: Chloromycetin;Chlornitromycin; Laevomycin,Chlorocid, Leukomycin)
2 Furazolidon and Nitrofurans metabolites (Nitrofuran,Furacillin, Nitrofurazon, Furacin, Nitrofurantoin, Furoxon,Orafuran, Furadonin, Furadantin, Furaltadon, Payzone,Furazolin, Nitrofurmethon, Nitrofuridin, Nitrovin)
3 Dimetridazole (Other name: Emtryl)
4 Metronidazole (Other name: Trichomonacid, Flagyl, Klion,Avimetronid)
5 Dipterex (Other name: Metriphonat,Trichlorphon, Neguvon,Chlorophos,DTHP); DDVP (Other names: Dichlorvos;Dichlorovos)
6 Eprofloxacin
7 Ciprofloxacin
8 Ofloxacin
9 Carbadox
10 Olaquidox
11 Bacitracin Zn
12 Tylosin phosphate
13 Green Malachite
14 Gentian Violet (Crystal violet)
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3. List of chemicals and antibiotics restricted for usein fishery production and trading
No. Chemicals, antibiotics MRLs (ppb)1 Amoxicillin 502 Ampicillin 503 Benzylpenicillin 504 Cloxacillin 3005 Dicloxacillin 3006 Oxacillin 3007 Oxolinic Acid 1008 Colistin 1509 Diflubenzuron 1000
10 Teflubenzuron 50011 Emamectin 10012 Erythromycine 20013 Tilmicosin 5014 Tylosin 10015 Florfenicol 100016 Lincomycine 10017 Neomycine 50018 Paromomycin 50019 Spectinomycin 30020 Chlortetracycline 10021 Oxytetracycline 10022 Tetracycline 10023 Sulfonamide (all types) 10024 Trimethoprim 5025 Ormetoprim 5026 Tricainemethanesulfonate 15-33027 Danofloxacin 10028 Difloxacin 30029 Ciprofloxacin 10030 Sarafloxacin 3031 Flumequine 600
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4. List of chemicals and antibiotics restrictedfor veterinary use
No. Chemicals, Antibiotics1 Improvac (Registration number: PFU-85, manufactured by
Pfizer Australia Pty Limited)2 Spiramycin3 Avoparcin4 Virginiamycin5 Meticlorpidol6 Meticlorpidol/Methylbenzoquate7 Amprolium (powder)8 Amprolium/ethopate9 Nicarbazin10 Flavophospholipol11 Salinomycin12 Avilamycin13 Monensin
16 Which models of Pangasius organic farminghave been applied in Vietnam?
In the future, demand for sustainable seafood productswill be on an upward trend. Achieving certificates ofinternational standards will help enterprises raise itscompetitiveness and create a firm position in theinternational markets.
Several Pangasius farms have been set up andimplemented organic farming models, in compliancewith international standards:
1. Model of Green Farm (applying AquaGAPstandard) have been undertaking in Dong Thap
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province, by Vinh Hoan Joint-Stock Company.Principles to be respected: compliance withGovernment master-plan, environment protectionand friendship, social responsibilities, farmed fishhealth, food safety and traceability.
2. Model of Organic farming in An Giang province,jointly invested by BINCA Seafood (head officelocated in Germany) has been inspected andcertified by NaturLand. Organic farmed Tra fish areexported to Germany and certain Europeancountries during the recent years.
3. Tra farming model by applying GlobalGAP (withprinciples: social and environment responsibilities,food hygiene and safety, friendly and sustainabletraceability) has been highly appreciated byEuropean wholesalers and consumers.
4. Other models of PurePanga and TracePangabecome typical and are also highly appreciated byforeign competent authorities and clients.
5. Till June 2012, Vinh Hoan Corp., QVD Dong Thap,ANVIFISH, NTSF Seafoods, Biendong Seafood,Cadovimex II were granted BAP-Best AquaculturePractice. BAP standards were set out by GlobalAquaculture Alliance (GAA)- the leading standardson certification for production chain. The standardsattract a lot of interest from UK, Canada andAmerican retailers and distributors.
6. Till June 2012, some enterprises registered andprepared for audits towards certification of ASCsuch as Vinh Hoan Corp, Docifish, Hung VuongCorp., SouthVina, Godaco, Sohafood, Anvifish,Ngoc Ha Co, Hung Ca, To Chau, Samefico, Navico,Hoang Long, CL-Fish, Biendong, CP VietnamLivestock Corp, Ntaco, Docifish, Vinh Quang...
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17 Which models are applied to link togetherfishery processing establishments for exportin Vietnam?
Vertical Linkage in pangasius production chain becomesthe optimal approach which is based on the value chain tomaximize the quality control of pangasius from farm totable, minimize risks and improve responsibilities of allstakeholders. The model has been set up and applied bythe majority of pangasius processing establishments inVietnam to ensure the highest quality of exported fisheryproducts as committed to clients.
18 How can we do to ensure that harvested fish forprocessing are totally free of antibiotics residues?
Strict procedures have been respected during theaquaculture and sampling for banned antibiotics residuestests:
1. The use of chemicals and antibiotics in aquacultureis required to be recorded and in compliance withcurrent regulations and standards.
Services:
SEEDS
FEEDS
VET DRUGS
AQUACULTURE
PROCESSINGPLANTS
BANK INSURANCE CERTIFICATION BODY
Act 1
Act 3 Act 4 Act 5
Act 2
Supply of seeds,feeds and
veterinary drugs Supply of rawmaterials
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2. The competent authority in charge of food safetycarries out regular control and inspections, includingthe use of chemicals and antibiotics in aquaculture.
3. The third party undertakes regular control and inspectionsto ensure the compliance with current regulations.
4. Before harvesting, processing establishment willcome to the farm and sample at each pond forantibiotics tests. Only in case of negative testingresult, fish can be harvested and supply toprocessing plants.
19 Is it required that pangasius supplied toprocessing plants are alive? What areharvesting and transportation procedures?
Yes, it is! This is a technology requirement to ensurethe freshness of pangasius fillet afterward.
Despite ponds or floating cages can be located a dozenkilometres far away from processing plant, withsatisfactory testing results for antibiotics residues, fishwill be harvested and transported by boat (the boat withmany holes for water exchange to keep the fish still bealive during the transport to processing plant).
20 How many Pangasius processingestablishments are there in Vietnam? Are theprocessing equipments and technologies ofthese establishments advanced?
In Vietnam, there are nearly 100 processing establishmentsof Tra and Basa fish which are mostly located in theMekong Delta. in which 49 pangasius processing
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companies have been granted Global GAP (making up45 percent of total number of fish processing companies).The majority of these establishments are equipped withadvanced equipments and technologies which allowto automating several stages of production line andproducing added value products. Advanced equipmentsinclude:
Continuous contact belt for filleting. IQF system imported from the EU and Japan. Metals detectors and vacuum machine. Packaging and labelling equipments. Advanced equipments for microbiological and
antibiotics residues tests. Treatment system for processing water and waste
water.
21 Have Vietnamese processing establishmentsbeen applying quality management programsand food safety guarantee?
Yes, they have and very well! Vietnam is classified inthe 2nd rank in the world, in term of the number of EU
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approved fishery processing establishments. InNovember 8th 2011, 393 establishments were approvedby EU and it took effect since November 21st 2011.
During the last ten years, the Vietnamese Governmenthas promulgated regulations and standards in compliancewith the EU and US Food and Drug Administration andalso required establishments to set up and implementHACCP based quality management programs.
The majority of establishments meet not only Vietnameseregulations and standards but also international onesand is certified by foreign accreditation bodies andclients with BRC, IFS, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, SQF2000,BAP, Halal, etc...
22 Does the Vietnamese Government regulateand carry out inspections on hygieneconditions of pangasius processing plants?
Yes, it does! NAFIQAD, the competent authority incharge, has been recognized by the EU, Canada,Korea,...) equivalent in term of competencies toeffectively control the quality and safety of fisheryproducts intended for export.
The Vietnamese Government has promulgatedregulations on the control of hygiene conditions at fisheryprocessing establishments (including pangasius),specifically:
1. The Circular No.55/2011/TT-BNNPTNT dated August3rd 2011 on inspection, certification of seafoodquality, food safety and hygiene.
2. The Circular No.14/2009/TT-BNN dated March 12th
2009 guiding environmental management in seafoodprocessing.
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3. QCVN 02-14: 2009/BNNPTNT: National technicalstandard on industrial aquatic feed producing plants- Conditions for food safety and hygiene, veterinarysanitation and environmental protection.
4. QCVN 02-02: 2009/BNNPTNT: National technicalstandard on seafood trading and producing plants-Food safety and quality guarantee program underHACCP regulation.
5. QCVN 02-01: 2009/BNNPTNT: National technicalstandard on seafood trading and producing plants -general conditions for ensuring food safety andhygiene.
6. QCVN 02 - 08: 2009/BNNPTNT: National technicalstandard on seafood ice water producing plants -Conditions for food safety and hygiene guarantee
7. QCVN 02 - 09: 2009/BNNPTNT: Conditions for foodsafety and hygiene: seafood cold storage facility -Conditions for food safety and hygiene guarantee.
23 The use of food additives in pangasiusprocessing, is it in compliance withrequirements of importing countries andcontrolled by Vietnamese competent authority?
Yes, it is! The Ministry of Agriculture and RuralDevelopment promulgated the Decision No.01/2008/QĐ-BNN of January 4, 2008 regulating thelabelling, glazing and use of food additives in frozen fishprocessing.
For food additives:
The Decision regulates that food additives used inprocessing should be in the list of food additives
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authorized for use by competent authority of importingcountry (for export products) and of Vietnam (fordomestic consumption products). The quantity of foodadditives used in the product is not allowed to exceed theMRLs authorized for each type of product.
For the labelling:
The labelling of frozen fish products should be incompliance with Vietnamese regulations (for domesticconsumption products) and importing country’srequirements (for export products) which are to ensurethe accuracy of the product nature and do not beopposite to Vietnamese regulations. Apart from labellinginformation as required by Vietnam and importingcountries, net weight and gross weight (including fish,glazing water and package) or quantity of glazing waterin the fish have to be clearly stated on the label.
Non-compliance consignments shall not be granted witha certificate for export or placing into domestic marketand be treated in compliance with current Vietnameseregulations. Competent authorities of importing countriesand client shall be informed of intentional violation cases.
24 Each Pangasius consignment intended forexport is tested by Vietnamese CompetentAuthority for microorganism, chemicals andantibiotics residues?
In accordance with Vietnamese regulation (The circularNo. 55/2011/TT-BNNPTNT dated August 3rd, 2011 ofthe Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development onseafood safety and quality inspection and certification),the inspection and certification and Health Certificate
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granting for a fishery consignment is carried out by theNational Agro-Forestry-Fisheries Quality AssuranceDepartment (NAFIQAD), in compliance with importingcountries’ requirements.
NAFIQAD has signed up to date bilateral agreementswith competent authorities of the EU, Korea, Russia,China, Canada, Taiwan... which recognize theNAFIQAD competencies on fishery quality and safetycontrol during the whole production chain.
25 Vietnam Pangasius was switched from “redlist” to “toward certification” in WWF’sseafood guide for fish lovers in EU countries.
WWF’s members in 6 EU countries (Germany, Austria,Switzerland, Belgium, Norway and Denmark putVietnam pangasius in to the Red List” (productshouldn’t be used) from the Orange List (product thatcan be considered for use) in WWF’s Seafood Guide forfish lovers 2010. The information was withdrawed fromsurvey on assessing over 100 fish species in the worldunder WWF’s renewed criteria for sustainabledevelopment.
Vietnam rejected WWF International’s assessment onVietnam pangasius at some respects. If the assessmentwas carried out in right way with consultation of relevantmulti-sides and experts in fish production, pangasiusshould be placed at blue or near blue list.
WWF based on data collected from 89 farms with areaof 360 hectares and 28 farming establishments and 4hatcheries from an other document to releaseevaluations on pangasius.
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The organizations didn’t use to visit Vietnam andprovided evaluations only based on availabledocuments. Research method set out by WWFInternational, the North Sea Foundation (NSF), theMarine Conservation Society (MCS) was relied on 19questions. These questions depend on answers frommany different people, leading different conclusions.
December 15th 2010:
Directorate of Fisheries (D-Fish), Vietnam Associationof Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), VietNam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS) and some otherMinistries had a dialogue with WWF Internationaldelegation led by Mr. Mark Powell, WWF's GlobalSeafood Programme director. At the direct dialogue,WWF agreed to remove Vietnam Pangasius from theRed List in Seafood Guide and recommendedconsumers to continue using this product.
Mr. Mark Powell was highly appreciated Vietnampangasius quality that is on sale in the EU markets anda lot of other foreign markets. He himself loves thisproduct. He emphasized that Seafood Guide forConsumers was just a guide to advice consumers onpurchasing environmentally friendly and sustainableproducts and should not be seen as a trade barrier thatthe U.S imposed on Vietnam fish.
Mr. Mark Powell admitted his mistake in assessing thefacts on Vietnam Pangasius only based on available dataof 2008-2009 without considering reality.
December 17th 2010:
Being witnessed by D-Fish; WWF International andWWF Vietnam, VINAFIS and VASEP signed aMemorandum of Understanding (MoU) on sustainable
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development cooperation of pangasius productionsector. Accordingly, VINAFIS and VASEP were in chargeof popularizing information and training fish farmers andproducers towards sustainable development. WWFInternational and WWF Vietnam must realize its 5commitments, including the withdrawal of pangasius fromWWF’s Red List, financial and human resourceassistance to help Vietnam fish industry develop in asustainable way.
After the MoU, WWF’s members in Germany, Austria,Switzerland, Belgium, Norway and Denmark withdrewVietnam fish out of the Red List. WWF Sweden is the lastone to implement this commitment.
Vietnam Pangasius is now placed in a new “towardscertification” category of WWF’s Seafood Guide forconsumers in EU countries.
26 Main types of products originated fromPangasius?
Live Tra and Basa fish are processed to different typesof products, including frozen and added value ones.Following are types of Tra and Basa fish products forexport:
- Whole fish- Slices- Fillet.- Breaded fish- Basa cooked in clay pot- Steaks
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MINISTRY OFAGRICULTURE
AND RURALDEVELOPMENT
No.: 70/2008/QÐ-BNN
SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAMIndependence - Freedom - Happiness
Hanoi, June 05, 2008
DECISIONPromulgating the Regulation on Managementof Tra fish rearing zones and establishments
THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND RURALDEVELOPMENT
Pursuant to the Government’s Decree No. 01/2008/NĐ-CP dated January 03, 2008 laying down functions,duties, responsibilities and organizational structure ofthe Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development;
Pursuant to the Government’s Decree No. 59/2005/NÐ-CP dated May 04, 2005 regulating production andtrading conditions of certain fishery business operators;
Pursuant to the Prime Minister’s Decision No.224/1999/QÐ-TTg dated December 8, 1999 approvingthe Aquaculture Development Program in the 1999 -2010 period;
At the proposal of the Director of the AquacultureDepartment,
DECIDES:
Article 1: To promulgate together with this Decision theRegulation on management of Tra catfish rearing zonesand establishments.
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Article 2: This Decision takes effect 15 days after itspublication in Official Gazette (CONG BAO);
Article 3: Heads of departments, Bureaus, theInspectorate and the Office of the Ministry, Directors ofprovincial/municipal Fisheries, and Agriculture and RuralDevelopment Services, and Heads of Units attached tothe Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development shallimplement this Decision./.
For the Minster of Agricultureand Rural Development
Vice Minister
(Signed and Sealed)Nguyen Viet Thang
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MINISTRY OFAGRICULTURE
AND RURALDEVELOPMENT
SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAMIndependence - Freedom - Happiness
REGULATON ON TRA FISH REARING ZONESAND ESTABLISHMENTS
(Promulgated together with Decision No. 70/2008/QÐ-BNNdated June 5, 2008 of the Minister of Agriculture
and Rural Development)
Chapter 1GENERAL PROVISIONS
Article 1: Objectives
This Regulation provides for the management of Tracatfish rearing zones and establishments to ensuresustainable development of Tra catfish rearing.
Article 2: Subjects and scope of application
This Regulation applies to Vietnamese and foreignorganizations and individuals rearing Tra catfish(Pangasianodon hypophthalmus Sauvage, 1878) in theVietnamese territory and concerned managementagencies nationwide.
Article 3: Interpretation of terms
In this regulation, the terms below are constructed asfollows:
1. Super intensive rearing of Tra catfish means rearingTra catfish with a stocking density of ≥ 30 bigbreeders fish/m2 or ≥ 40 small breeder fish/m2 (big
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breeder fish means a fish with a body height of 2,5 -3,0cm, with a size of 10-12 individuals/kg; smallbreeder fish means a fish with a body height of 1,5 -2,0cm, with a size of 60 - 70 individuals/kg, as definedin the Sector Standard No. 28 TCN 170 : 2001), in aproper technological process to reach a productivityof ≥ 300 tons/ha/crop.
2. Intensive rearing of Tra catfish means rearing Tracatfish with a density of 15-20 big breeders fish/m2
or 20-30 small breeder fish/m2 in a propertechnological process to reach a productivity of 150-200 tons/ha/crop.
3. Tra catfish rearing establishment means a facilityowned by an organization or individual where Tracatfish is reared.
4. Tra catfish rearing zone means an area used for Tracatfish rearing which accommodate two or more Tracatfish rearing establishments using a commonsupply source and waste water drainage system.
5. GAP (Good Aquaculture Practices) is applied to Tracatfish rearing.
6. BMP (Better Management Practices) is applied to Tracatfish rearing.
7. CoC (Code of Conduct for Responsible Aquaculture) isapplied to Tra catfish rearing.
(GAP, BMP and CoC are formulated based onprinciples specified in the Article 9 - AquacultureDevelopment of the Code of Conduct forResponsible Fisheries of FAO, 1995).
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8. Safe Tra catfish rearing means a rearing process inwhich proper technical methods are applied in orderto ensure food safety for products, epidemic safetyfor reared fish, environmental safety and economicefficiency for raisers.
9. Safe Tra catfish rearing establishment means a Tracatfish rearing establishment which fully satisfiesconditions prescribed in this Regulation and is granteda certificate of safe Tra catfish rearing establishment:or an establishment which applies one of internationalstandards sets such as GAP, BMP and CoC or otherstandards on safe aquaculture and is granted acertificate of qualification by the relevant standardspromulgating body.
10. Safe Tra catfish rearing zones means Tra catfishrearing zone which has 100% of Tra catfish rearingestablishments fully satisfying conditions prescribedin this Regulation or applying one of internationalstandards sets such as GAP, BMP and CoC or otherstandards on safe aquaculture, at least 80% ofwhich obtain a relevant certificate of qualification.
Chapter II
MANAGEMENT OF TRA CATFISH EARING ZONESAND ESTABLISHMENTS
Article 4: Conditions on Tra catfish rearing
1. The location of a Tra catfish rearing establishmentmust be an area planned for Tra catfish rearingalready approved by a competent authority.
2. A catfish rearing establishment must use breeder fishmeeting quality requirements set in sector standard
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No. 28 TCN 170:2001 and only use breeder fishwhich have a clear origin and receive quarantinecertification and quality examination.
3. A Tra catfish rearing establishment must useindustrial feeds meeting sector standard No. 28 TCN188:2004 or home-made feeds meeting sectorstandard No. 28 TCN 176:2002 on quality andhygiene safety.
4. Wastewater discharged from Tra catfish rearingponds must be treated to meet Vietnam standardsTCVN 6774:2000 and TCVN 5942-1995 onwastewater quality.
5. Solid wastes must be collected and treated accordingto Clause 3, Article 7 of the Government’s DecreeNo. 33/2005/ND-CP of March 15, 2005, detailing theimplementation of certain provisions of theOrdinance on Animal Health. To e encourage oftreatment and the reuse of solid wastes from Tracatfish rearing for agricultural production.
6. Not to treat the environment with chemicals andbiological substances out of the authorized list.
7. A Tra catfish rearing owner must make a writtencommitment on environmental protection andobserve this commitment.
Article 5: Epidemic prevention in Tra catfish rearingzones and establishments
1. The epidemic prevention for reared fish complies withClause 2, Article 7 of the Government’s Decree No.33/2005/ND-CP of March, 15, 2005, detailing theimplementation of certain provisions of theOrdinance on Animal Health.
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2. Not to prevent or treat fish diseases with drugs andchemicals on the list of chemicals and antibioticsbanned from or restricted for use in fisheryproduction and trading.
Chapter IIIORGANIZATION OF IMPLEMENTATION
Article 7: Responsibilities of the Aquaculture Department
1. To organize, examine and supervise the implementationof this Regulation nationwide.
2. To urge provincial-level aquaculture state managementagencies in implementing this Regulation.
3. To direct the research into advanced technologies ofbreeder production and commercial rearing toensure safe and sustainable development of Tracatfish rearing.
Article 8: Responsibilities of provincial-levelaquaculture state management agencies
1. To organize the implementation of this Regulation inprovincial-level territories.
2. To coordinate with the Monitoring Centers forAquaculture Environment and Epidemic in organizingthe surveillance and warning of aquacultureenvironment and diseases for Tra catfish rearingzones.
3. To annually make and announce lists of safe Tra catfishrearing establishments; super intensive Tra catfishrearing zones and establishments; and intensive Tracatfish rearing establishments in provincial-levelterritories to serve as the basis for macro managementand tracking down product origins.
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4. To review the local Tra catfish rearing situation andmake reports to the Aquaculture Department on anannual or extraordinary (at request) basis.
Chapter IV
COMMENDATION, HANDLING OF VIOLATIONS,COMPLAINTS AND DENUNCIATIONS
Article 9: Commendation
Organizations and individuals gaining achievements inimplementing this Regulation may be commendedaccording to law.
Article 10: Handling of violations
Organizations and individuals violating this Regulationshall be handled according to Section C, Chapter II ofthe Government’s Decree No. 128/2005/ND-CP ofOctober 11, 2005, providing for the sanctioning ofadministrative violations in the fisheries domain and the,Government’s Decree No. 34/2005/ND-CP of March 17,2005, on the sanctioning of administrative violations inthe water resources domain.
Article 11: Complaints and denunciations
Organizations and individuals may lodge complaints on,individuals may denounce, an organization’s or individual’sacts of violating this Regulation to a competent organizationor individual.
When receiving a complaint or denunciation, a competentorganization or individual shall promptly handle itaccording to the law on complaints and denunciations.
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Chapter V
IMPLEMENTATION PROVISIONS
Article 12: Amendment of and supplementation to theRegulation
When sector standards and other documents related tothe implementation of this Regulation are amended,supplemented or replaced, those new documents prevail.
In the course of implementing this Regulation, anyinappropriate content to be modified or supplementedshould be promptly reported to the AquacultureDepartment for sum up and submission to the Minister ofAgriculture and Rural Development for study and decision
For the Minister of Agricultureand Rural Development
Vice Minister
(Signed and Sealed)Nguyen Viet Thang
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MINISTRY OFAGRICULTURE
AND RURALDEVELOPMENT
SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAMIndependence - Freedom - Happiness
REGULATIONMonitoring certain substances
and toxic residues thereof in animals andaquatic products
(Issued with Decision No. 130/2008/QD-BNNdated 31st December, 2008 of Minister of Ministry
of Agriculture and Rural Development)
Chapter 1
GENARAL PROVISIONS
Article 1: Scope and object of application
1. Adjusted scope: This regulation stipulated proceduresand implementation, duties and authorities of relevantunits of monitoring Programs for certain substancesand toxic residues thereof in animals and aquacultureanimals products used for foodstuffs (hereinafter calledmonitoring Program).
2. Object of application: This Regulation shall apply tomanufacturing and trading establishments of breed;aquaculture establishments; manufacturing andtrading establishments of feedstuffs, veterinary drugs;aquaculture environment treating agents used inaquaculture; aquaculture collecting, pre-processing,processing establishments (hereinafter calledestablishments).
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Article 2: Explaination of terms
In this regulation, terms are understood as follows:
1. Residues of toxic substances (hereinafter calledresidues) means the remainder of veterinary drugs,growth-promoting and gonadotropic substances,aquaculture environment treating agent, harmfulsubstances originated from feedstuffs, from aquacultureenvironment and their metabolites remain inaquaculture being harmful to the health of consumers.
2. Aquaculture areas (hereinafter called aquacultureareas) means a collection of zonolimnetic areas(rivers, lagoons, ponds, reservoirs,etc.) used foraquaculture under general influence ofenvironmental agents.
3. Aquaculture establishments: means places havingdirectly aquaculture, in which ponds/lagoons/raftsbeing in the same of aquaculture manner and use thesame of supply water source and waste watersystems, by an organization or individual ownes.
4. Manufacturing and trading establishments of breed:means places having manufacturing orhatching/residding activities of breeds used for raisingaquaculture or selling to other aquacultureestablishments by an organization or individual ownes.
5. Lots of aquaculture products means a set of manyindividuals of an aquaculture objects harvested atthe same time and at an aquaculturearea/establishment of raising aquaculture.
6. Laboratories means laboratories meeting requirementsof analysis capacity of the residues of toxicsubstances are assigned by agenies decided by theMinistry of Agriculture and Rural Development
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Article 3: Basics to implement residues monitoringprograms
National rules, technical standards of environmentand aquaculture safety quality; national rules,technical standards for feedstuffs, veterinary drugs,and environment treating agents in aquaculture, orother concerned rules of the State.
Article 4: Inspecting agencies, monitoring agencies
1. National Agro-forestry and fisheries qualityassurance Directorate (including subordinated units)is the inspecting agency: chairing to submit plans tothe Ministry to approval and organize implementation,inspect the implementation of residues monitoringprograms.
2. Agencies are assigned tasks of seafood qualitymanagement by Departments of Agriculture andRural Development: chairing to set up, plan,implement monitoring residues program in localareas.
Chapter II
PROCEDURES OF SETTING UP ANDIMPLEMENTING PROGRAM
Article 5: Setting up annual monitoring plans
1. In fourth-quarter of each year or at the end of thelast harvest of each year, monitoring agencies shallchair to organize the investigation, collect information,survey some steps as follows:
a) Collecting necessary information about realaquaculture situation at the subordinated areas.
b) Organizing groups of practical survey at everylocations being less than necessary information.
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2. Determining aquaculture areas and objects need tomonitor
a) Aquaculture areas and monitored objects of eachregion are determined based on the results ofsurveys and administrative frontiers, feasibility ofimplementing the monitoring program at local.
b) Each aquaculture area shall be signed inaccordance with united instructions of inspectionagencies.
c) Drawing a map of aquaculture areas supervisedin residues monitoring programs and updatingwhen having the adjustment, the supplement.
3. Monitoring agencies shall plan implementationannually on management areas in accordance withinstructions of inspecting agencies and reporting tothe inspection agency before 31st December eachyear.
4. Approval and notice of monitoring plans annually
a) Inspecting agencies shall collect and handle reportsfrom monitoring agencies to plan annual residuemonitoring programs. National Agro-forestry andfisheries Quality assurance Directorate shall submitthe Ministry to approve the program.
b) In necessary cases, inspection agencies shallorganize groups to verify information reported bymonitoring agencies or shall coordinate withmonitoring agencies to implement surveys.
c) Annual monitoring plans after approval of theMinistry shall be informed to monitoring agenciesand other related agencies to implementmonitoring programs by inspecting agencies.
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Article 6: Implementation of residues monitoringprograms
1. Updating, adjusting monthly sampling plans:
a) Before 22nd every month, monitoring agenciesshall send monitoring reports of the aquaculturesituation of aquaculture areas in residuesmonitoring programs to inspecting agencies andshall propose adjustment of next month samplingplans (if necessary).
b) Before 26th every month, based on informationprovided by monitoring agencies, the inspectingagency shall adjust monitoring sampling plan (ifany) and shall inform the official monitoringsampling plan next month to monitoringagencies. In necessary cases, the agencies shallcarry out verification and request explainingunappropriate contents (information) of monitoringagencies.
2. Sampling, designated criteria, sending analysis samples:
a) Pursuant to notified plans, monitoring agenciesshall carry out determining locations, objects ofsampling, taking samples, designated specificanalysis criteria for each sample and send toinspecting agencies.
b) Procedures of sampling, storage, delivering andreceiving are implemented unitedly as theinstruction of inspecting agencies.
c) Within 03 working days after sampling, monitoringagencies must send to inspecting agencies.
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d) Within 02 working days of receiving the samples,the inspecting agencies must send to assignedlaboratories to analyse.
d) Periodically 6 months (or extraordinary), theinspecting agencies shall organize to verifysampling operation of monitoring agencies.
3. Analysing samples and reporting monitoring results:
a) Within 05 working days of receiving the samples,the laboratories must analyze and provide resultsto the inspecting agencies.
b) Within 05 working days since having the analysisresults, the inspector agencies shall send reportsof monthly monitoring results to monitoringagencies and other agencies mentioned atArticle 10, Article 11 of this Regulation.
c) For analysis samples detected residues exceedingthe maximum residue limitation: the laboratoriesmust inform results to the inspecting agency within01 working day right after having official analysisresults (including confirmed analysis results ofsamples detected positive by screening methods).Within 01 working day after receiving the results,the inspecting agencies must inform in writing tothe monitoring agencies and other agenciesmentioned at Article 10, Article 11 of thisRegulation in order to require to determine causes,implement appropriate measures based on theprocedures described in Chapter III.
d) Right after finishing determining causes andimplementing measures to overcome those cases
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detected residues exceeding the maximum residuelimitation described at point b, Clause 3 of thisArticle, the monitoring agencies shall report theresults in writing of the implementation to theinspecting agencies and the relevant agenciesmentioned at Article 10, Article 11 of this Regulationand shall propose authority agencies to treatestablishments depending on the level of violation.
Chapter III
PROCEDURES OF IMPLEMENTING APPROPRIATEMEASURES TO OVERCOME WHEN DETECTING
RESIDUES EXCEEDINGTHE MAXIMUM RESIDUE LIMITATION
Article 7: Cases of detected residues exceeding themaximum residue limitation in aquaculture
1. At the stage of producing, trading breed: monitoringagencies shall have notice in writing to warn,determine causes and require establishments toimplement appropriate measures to overcome;intensify the sampling at producing and tradingaquaculture establishments of breed and hatcheryusing breed from detected establishments.
2. At the time of raising: The monitoring agencies shallhave notice in writing to warn, determine causes andrequire establishments to implement appropriatemeasures to overcome; intensify residues monitoringsampling. The time of sampling shall depend on thelevel of elimination in accordance with unitedinstructions of the inspecting agencies.
3. At the time of preparation or harvesting:
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a) The monitoring agency shall suspend harvestingtemporarily in writing, determine causes, requireestablishments to implement appropriatemeasures to overcome; require and monitorrelaying, intensify the sampling in accordancewith the instruction of the inspecting agencies.When analysis results are negative, themonitoring agencies shall inform in writing to theestablishments to allow harvesting.
b) For slow eliminated substances (following thespecific instructions of the inspection agencies):The inspecting agencies shall coordinate with themonitoring agency to allow harvesting whenmeeting the specific requirements of theconsumption markets or change purposes of use.
4. Cases of harvesting establishments: The monitoringagencies shall have notice in writing to warn,determine cause and require establishments toimplement appropriate measures to overcome;trace lots of aquaculture products originatedfrom establishments; intensify the sampling inaccordance with the instructions of the inspectingagency.
5. Aquaculture collecting, pre-processing, processingestablishments: The monitoring agencies shall havenotice in writing to warn, determine causes andrequire the establishments to implement appropriatemeasures to overcome; require tracebility andisolate the lot of aquaculture products, take samplesto verify.
a) When the results are negative, just allow lots ofaquaclulture products free.
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b) When the results are positive, just allow using likefoodstuffs, as meeting the specific requirementsof consumption markets or change the purposeof use.
Article 8: Detection of toxic substances in foodstuffs,aquaculture environment treating agents, veterinarydrugs exceeding the maximum residue limitation
1. The inspecting agencies shall have notice in writingto relevant agencies mentioned at Article 10, Article11, Article 12, Article 13 of this regulation.
2. The monitoring agencies shall have notice in writingto warn, determine causes and requireestablishments to implement appropriate measuresto overcome.
3. The agencies mentioned at Article 10, Article 11 ofthis Regulation shall chair to implement treatmentmeasures appropriate according to authorities.
Chapter IV
DUTIES, AUTHORITIES OF AGENCIES,ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS RELATING
TO RESIDUES MONITORING PROGRAMS
Article 9: National Agro-forestry and fisheries qualityassurance Directorate (the inspecting agency)
1. Guiding monitoring agencies to plan the implementationin local areas; collecting implementing plans ofannual residues monitoring programs to submitMinistry of Agriculture and Rural Development forapproval; organizing implementation of approved
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plans, periodically checking the implementation ofcontents mentioned at Chapter II;
2. Chairing, coordinating with monitoring agencies toimplement procedures described at Clause 5, Article7 of this Regulation on the jurisdiction.
3. Updating, promulgating annual lists of aquacultureareas and objects of aquaculture in residuesmonitoring programs.
4. Chairing and coordinating with relevant agenciesmentioned at Article 10, Article 11 of this regulation,setting up and issued implementing guide ofmonitoring programs.
5. Updating, promulgating lists of analysis criteria andthe maximum residues limitation in monitoringprograms based on Vietnamese rules, technicalstandards and rules, technical standards ofStates/international organizations.
6. Chairing, organizing training courses on implementingmonitoring programs, for agencies, organizations,individuals concerned;
7. Reporting lists of laboratories participated inmonitoring programs;
8. Reporting periodically, suddenly on the request ofMinistry of Agriculture and Rural Development onthe result of implementation; proposing the contentsneeded to modify in implementing the monitoringprograms;
9. Managing, using and allocating the approved budgetfor relevant agencies to implementing the monitoring
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programs in accordance with current regulations ofthe Ministry of Finance;
10. Requiring monitoring agencies to report periodicallyor suddenly the contents mentioned at points a,Clause 1, Article 6 and other information related tothe monitoring programs.
Article 10: Veterinary Departments
1. Chairing to build procedures of handling issuesrelated to veterinary drugs manufacturing andtrading establishments when detected forbiddensubstances in monitoring programs;
2. Coordinating with the inspecting agencies to diffuse,guide and examine the implementation of themonitoring programs for the monitoring agenciesand objects related.
3. Chairing and directing the subordinate agenciescoordinate with the monitoring agency inimplementing measures mentioned at Article 8under the scope of management
4. Updating, publishing lists of veterinary drugs allowedcirculating.
Article 11: Department of Aquaculture
1. Chairing to build procedures of handling issuesrelated to manufacturing and trading establishmentsof breed, aquaculture environment treating agents,propagation establishments detected toxicsubstances exceeding the maximum residuelimitation of monitoring programs.
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2. Coordinating with the inspecting agencies to diffuse,instruct and examine the implementation of themonitoring programs for monitoring agencies andother relevant objects.
3. Chairing and directing the subordinate agenciescoordinate with the monitoring agencies inimplementing measures mentioned at Article 8under the scope of management.
4. Updating, publishing lists of feedstuffs, aquacultureenvironment treating agents allowed circulating;
5. Coordinating with local functional agencies to set upmeasures when having any problems of aquacultureenvironment.
6. Reporting timely results of warning aquacultureenvironment to the monitoring agency to adjustmonthly sampling plans (if any).
Article 12: Provincial Departments of Agricultureand Rural Development
1. Assigning and directing monitoring agencies to chairand implement the monitoring programs atmanagement areas.
2. Directing popularization, instruction for subordinateagencies to carry out rules on the monitoring programs.
3. Directing subordinate agencies to coordinate withmonitoring agencies to carry out procedures ofimplementation of measures when detected residuesexceeding the maximum residues limitation.
4. Examining and monitoring implementation of themonitoring programs.
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5. Reporting periodically or suddenly when required bythe Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Developmentabout the residues monitoring operation atmanagement areas.
Article 13: Monitoring agencies
1. Chairing the implementation of activities mentionedat clauses 1, 2, 3, Article 5, Point a , Clause 1,Clause 2, Article 6, Article 7 of this regulation atmanagement areas.
2. Guiding manufacturing and trading establishmentsof breed, veterinary drugs; aquaculture environmenttreating agents; aquaculture establishments;aquaculture collecting establishments to comply withthe provisions in this regulation, coordinating withthe inspecting agencies and relevant agencies toplan and organize training courses on implementationof the monitoring programs for objects related.
3. Chairing and coordinating to carry out measures toin accordance with procedures mentioned atChapter III of this regulation.
4. Regularly updating lists of manufacturing andtrading establishments of breed, veterinary drugs;aquaculture environment treating agents; aquacultureestablishments on management areas;
5. Diffusing and guiding establishments carry out rules,standards of residues in aquaculture.
6. Requiring manufacturing and trading establishmentsof breed, veterinary drugs; aquaculture environmenttreating agents; aquaculture establishments;
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aquaculture collecting establishments to execute intaking samples, provide relevant information;measures implemented in the monitoring programs.
7. Managing and using an allocated budget annually inmonitoring programs in accordance with currentregulations of the Ministry of Finance.
Article 14: Laboratories
1. Complying exactly with regulations of the Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development Department forassigned laboratories
2. Ensuring analysis results accurately, objectively andreporting results on time, being responsibility foranalysis results implemented by laboratories.
3. Reporting the analysis results in the monitoringprograms just for the inspecting agencies.
Article 15: Manufacturing and trading establishments ofbreed; aquaculture establishments
1. Do not use feedstuffs, veterinary drugs, aquacultureenvironment treating agents which are not allowedin lists of circulated substances in Vietnam orcontain substances in lists of prohibited substances.In case of using substances with the maximumallowed limitation in aquaculture, stopping usingbefore harvesting in accordance with instructions ofthe manufacturers;
2. Observing, storing fully and providing for monitoringagencies information about species, raisingaquaculture manner and raising areas/volume, timeof harvesting, feedstuffs, veterinary drugs, chemicals
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used (if any) and other information related to theprocess of raising aquaculture requested.
3. Execution of sampling and monitoring measures ofmonitoring agencies after analysis results exceedingthe maximum residue limitation.
4. Providing fully information to buyers about the originof Lot of breed, aquaculture products harvested;
5. Participated in training courses, diffusion of knowledgeabout food safety in aquaculture organized byfunctional agencies.
6. Provided analysis results of samples collected attheir establishments when required.
Article 16: Aquaculture collecting, pre-processing,processing establishments
1. Regularly updating monitoring results from theinspecting agencies, monitoring agencies andrelevant agencies.
2. No buying aquaculture animals harvested fromsuspended areas/establishments or unknown origin;creating and storing fully forms of origin of each lot ofaquaculture products.
3. Execution of sampling and monitoring measures ofmonitoring agencies after analysis results exceedingthe maximum residues limitation.
4. Providing inspection agencies/monitoring agencieson self-controlled results of toxic substances inaquaculture at the establishments and informationrelated to raising situation at collectingestablishments (if any) when required.
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5. Participated in training courses, diffusion of knowledgeabout food safety in aquaculture organized byfunctional agencies.
6. Provided analysis results of samples collected attheir establishments when required.
Article 17: Manufacturing and trading establishmentsof Feedstuffs, veterinary drugs, aquaculture estab-lishments
1. No manufacturing, trading chemicals, veterinarydrugs, growth-promoting substances, aquacultureenvironment treating agents which have not allowedcirculation yet or have compounds in lists offorbidden substances;
2. Observing, storing fully information (species,quantity/volume, manufacturers, other necessaryinformation) and providing for monitoring agenciesinformation about feedstuff, veterinary drugs,growth-promoting substances, aquacultureenvironment treating agents at establishments whenrequired;
3. Execution of sampling and monitoring measures ofmonitoring agencies after analysis results exceedingthe maximum residue limitation;
4. Participated in training courses, diffusion ofknowledge about food safety in aquacultureorganized by functional agencies;
5. Provided analysis results of samples collected attheir establishments when required;
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Chapter V
COMPLAINTS, VIOLATION TREATMENTS
Article 18: Complaints and resolving complaints
1. Every organization and individual shall have theright to complain and prosecute to competent levelswith respect to violations occurred in theimplementation of this Regulation in accordance withrules of the Law on complaints and denunciations anddocuments guiding the implementation of Law oncomplaints and denunciations.
2. The official competent authorities are responsible forresolving timely complaints and denunciations related tothe monitoring program in accordance withprocedures of the Law on complaints anddenunciations.
Article 19: Violation treatments
Handling violations for violating behaviors of thisregulation depending on the nature and degree ofbehavior shall be punished administratively or criminallyin accordance with regulations of legislation inaccordance with the Law.
Chapter VI
EXECUTIVE PROVISIONS
Article 20: Supplementation and amendment of theRegulation
During the implementation, National Agro-forestry andfisheries Quality assurance Directorate, Departments of
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Agriculture and Rural Development are responsible forcollecting proposals of every organization, individualabout difficulties in the implementation of this Regulation,Any amendment or supplement of this Regulation'scontents shall be decided by the Ministry of Agricultureand Rural Development.
PP. MINISTER OF MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE ANDRURAL DEVELOPMENT
DEPUTY MINISTER
(signed and stamped)Mr. Lương Lê Phương
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Spain gives catfish from Vietnam clean bill of health
SEAFOOD.COM NEWS [Asia Pulse] Feb 11, 2009 - Spain'sfood safety watchdog has denied claims of food poisoningrelated to tra and basa catfish imported from Vietnam,attributing the allegations to 'false information' provided by theEuropean Commission (EC).
Batches of catfish imported into Spain from Vietnam last Julytested negative for any toxic substances banned by the EC,said Roberto Sabrido, president of the Spanish Agency forFood Security and Nutrition, at a press briefing at a recentgastronomy and tourism exposition in Ourense.
Last month, Spain's Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairsalso confirmed that Vietnamese catfish met food safetyregulations set by the EU and posed no danger to consumerhealth.
Spain is one of Vietnam's leading European markets forcatfish, importing about 40,000 tonnes per year, according tostatistics from a Spanish trade association.
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63 - 630 -806 / 08 -12NN- 2012
Responsible for publication: Dr. Le Quang KhoiResponsible for manuscript: Lai Thi Thanh TraTotal publication of 1.515 copies with size 11,5 x 20,5cm. Printed at Agriculture Publishing House.Publishing license No 225-2012/CXB/806-08/NN. Issued on 6/3/2012 by the PublishingDepartment, Ministry of Information and Communication.
