Developing a Japanese-standard value chain for Vietnamese oysters

According to the Vietnam Fisheries Society, on April 23, the Society and Kunihiro Inc., a leading Japanese enterprise in oyster production and processing, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a critical step forward in Vietnam-Japan cooperation in the fisheries sector.

The signing ceremony took place at Kunihiro Inc.’s headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan, under the witness of representatives from both sides and relevant agencies. The event was notably supported and facilitated by the Vietnam Trade Office under the Embassy of Vietnam in Japan.

Under the MoU, the two sides will cooperate strategically to develop a value chain for Vietnamese oysters that meets Japanese standards, serving both domestic and export markets. Japan will assist Vietnam in upgrading aquaculture areas to meet export requirements, improving breeds and technical processes suited to Vietnam’s marine environment, and transferring technology related to cleaning, freezing, and packaging to quality management.

In terms of brand development, both parties will collaborate to establish the “Vietnamese Oysters – Japanese Standards” trademark, while also promoting the creation of a distinctive Vietnamese oyster brand for international markets. Besides, Japan will also support workforce training by accepting Vietnamese engineers for internships in Japan to learn production processes and culture.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Nguyen Viet Thang, Chairman of the Vietnam Fisheries Society, emphasized, “This partnership is not only an economic collaboration but also a symbol of a long-term, sustainable relationship between the two countries. It opens up opportunities to enhance competitiveness and develop Vietnam’s fisheries sector sustainably.”

With more than 3,000 hectares of oyster farming stretching from North to South, Vietnam is considered an attractive destination for Japanese investors in the fisheries sector. The combination of advanced technology from Japan and Vietnam's favorable natural conditions is expected to produce high-value oyster products that meet international standards.

The MoU between the Vietnam Fisheries Society and Kunihiro Inc. not only opens up a new direction for the Vietnamese oyster industry but also affirms a long-term commitment to elevating the value of Vietnamese seafood products in line with international standards.

The combination of Japan's experience and modern technology with Vietnam's rich farming potential will contribute to building a closed, sustainable value chain for the global market. This MoU marks a crucial first step, laying the foundation for the Vietnamese oyster industry to advance further in its integration and green, effective development strategy.

Previously, on April 21, the Vietnamese delegation had an official working session at the Hiroshima Prefectural Government Office to discuss strategies for developing the oyster industry associated with the demand for export and standardization of Vietnam's farming area.

On April 22, the Vietnamese delegation also conducted a field visit to Kunihiro Inc.’s offshore and coastal oyster farming areas, as well as its modern pre-processing system. This model has helped Japan to conquer demanding markets such as the U.S. and the European Union (EU).