Establishes strategic disease-free livestock zones

In the sustainable agriculture development strategy, disease safety is not only an urgent requirement but also a decisive factor for the competitiveness of livestock products. Possessing a livestock and poultry herd of nearly 6 million in total, Quang Ninh is gradually implementing the establishment of disease-free livestock zones.

According to Chu Thi Thu Thuy, Head of Quang Ninh Sub-department of Livestock Production and Animal Health, African swine fever, avian influenza, and foot-and-mouth disease have caused significant losses for Quang Ninh’s farmers over the past few years. Considering the current situation, sustainability can only be ensured by managing diseases with a regional mindset, through consistent planning, strict supervision, and public consensus. This province is therefore working to reduce small-scale, scattered, and uncoordinated farming models, which are favorable environments for disease outbreaks.

The Head of Quang Ninh Sub-department of Livestock Production and Animal Health said, “Building disease-free livestock zones is the province’s long-term direction. Once a safe zone is certified, livestock products will be recognized and eligible to participate in closed supply chains, meeting both domestic and international market requirements. This is also the foundation for improving farmers’ incomes and stabilizing their livelihoods.”

Quang Tan commune is a prime example, as it has become one of the province’s highlights in building disease-free livestock zones for poultry. Farmers here not only strictly follow vaccination regulations but also fully apply biosecurity measures. Facilities are regularly cleaned, while feed and water sources are carefully monitored.

“Every year, my family raises about 5,000 Dam Ha native chickens. I strictly follow veterinary procedures, fully vaccinate, and use bio-bedding. Thanks to that, our flock has been stable with no disease outbreaks,” said Nguyen Thi Luong, a chicken farmer in Quang Tan commune.

Quang Tan has become the first locality in Quang Ninh to be certified as a disease-free livestock zone. Reality shows that when there is strong involvement from governmental bodies, technical support from veterinary authorities, and changes in public awareness, building disease-free livestock zones is entirely feasible. One important thing to add is that the disease-free livestock production model can be replicated in many other localities, thereby contributing to sustainable value chains for Quang Ninh’s livestock sector.

However, the path to building disease-free zones still faces many challenges. Investment in disease surveillance systems, veterinary infrastructure, and human resources requires significant funding. Local authorities, the agricultural sector, and farmers require more time to strengthen coordination, as even a single weak link can pose a risk of disease resurgence.

The Quang Ninh agriculture sector has set a target to expand the number of certified disease-free zones, focusing first on key products such as pigs and chickens. At the same time, Quang Ninh is working toward partnerships with processing and export enterprises so that livestock products are not only safe but also make a strong presence in the market through branding.

This is not just about preventing epidemics; it is also a strategy to enhance product value. Each disease-free livestock zone established will serve as a solid “shield” protecting animal herds and the livelihoods of tens of thousands of households, while affirming the province’s determination to build a modern, sustainable agriculture.

Quang Duc commune in Quang Ninh province is one of the key poultry hubs, maintaining stability with a flock of nearly one million. Its success stems from consistent veterinary work, making it a model in disease prevention and control.

Local veterinary services are carried out comprehensively based on strengthening public awareness, quarantine work, and supply support. Local veterinary forces closely monitor animal health, promptly isolating disease areas and addressing any unusual signs within flocks. Thanks to this high level of vigilance, the commune has avoided major outbreaks for many years. Authorities and farmers share the view of "prevention is better than cure", as even a small mistake could cause major losses. Vaccination and disinfection of barns are thus strictly enforced.

Quang Duc shows that sustainable livestock farming begins with a strong veterinary “fortress.” Close cooperation between farmers and veterinary officers has kept nearly a million poultry safe, providing steady income and ensuring the commune’s reputation as a prosperous and secure farming area.