Vietnam’s southernmost province of Ca Mau has gained a seafood output of 490,000 tonnes this year, representing a year-on-year increase of 10.3 percent and also the highest level ever.

Of the figure, 180,000 tonnes were processed for export, bringing home 1.3 billion USD, 200 million USD more than the revenue gained from a year earlier, said Director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Van Su.

These outcomes were attributable to a bumper harvest recorded in a number of farming areas like Dam Doi, Cai Nuoc, and Phu Tan as well as fewer storms which allowed nearly 1,000 offshore fishing vessels to operate more regularly.

This year’s seafood output was, however, still far below potential, Su said, noting that the offshore catch would have been higher if fishermen used modern vehicles.

Pham Thanh Tuoi, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, said Ca Mau will expand profitable farming models such as a fish farming model on rice paddy fields.

It will also assist locals in building iron-covered vessels in line with the Government’s Decree 67 and overhaul the planning of farming areas, the official added.-VNA