In the first nine months of 2018, exports of crocodile and crocodile leather products in Ho Chi Minh City doubled the figures from the previous year’s period. However, the city should develop plans to promote brand names for the sector in order to enjoy sustainable growth.
During the period, crocodile prices rose sharply from 2.6 USD to 6.6 USD per kg, with breeders pocketing up to 66 USD for just one exported crocodile.
The southern city has more than 70,000 crocodiles. In the first nine months of the year, Ho Chi Minh City exported 5,200 crocodiles, another 27,000 crocodiles are ready for export.
Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Forestry said that China is the largest crocodile importer, accounting for 95 percent of the city’s crocs exports; followed by Hong Kong; Japan; Russia; and France.
However, crocodile breeders are concerned that this export prosperity might lead to mass breeding and a redundant supply. Therefore, it is necessary to have a close-kit connection between breeders and enterprises to control selling prices.
Products made from crocodile from Vietnam accounts for less than 10 percent of the world’s demand, especially in the high-end segment. Therefore, the sector should take initiatives in bolstering exports, expanding markets, towards achieving substantial and sustainable growth. –VNA
