Overview
Pangasius (basa, tra fish) is a representative freshwater farmed fish of Vietnam, exported to more than 140 countries worldwide. Annual output reaches about 1.7 million tonnes, an important item accounting for about 25% of Vietnam's seafood export value. Characterized by its white, mild flesh, demand is rising worldwide as an ingredient for fish and chips and fried fish.
Growing regions and areas
Pangasius farming is concentrated in the Mekong River basin. An Giang Province and Dong Thap Province are the two major producing areas, accounting for about 70% of national output. Can Tho、Mekong Delta Farming takes place throughout the region, with a farming area of about 5,500 hectares.
Cultivation methods and harvest season
Pangasius is farmed and harvested year-round. Raised in farming ponds and net cages (cage farming) in the Mekong River, they grow from fry to shipping size (1 to 1.5 kg) in about six to eight months. With high feed efficiency, it is valued as a farmed fish with a relatively low environmental load. The acquisition of ASC certification is advancing, accelerating the shift to sustainable farming.
Exports and market trends
The annual export value of pangasius is about US$1.8 billion. The main destinations are the United States, the EU, China, and Japan. Frozen fillets are the mainstay of exports, but in recent years exports of fresh fillets and value-added processed products (breaded, seasoned, etc.) are also expanding. Compliance with the US CATFISH Act is one challenge, but it is being addressed through strengthened quality-control systems.
Connections with Japan
In Japan, pangasius is distributed as 'basa' or 'pangasius' and is sold as fried white fish at conveyor-belt sushi chains and supermarket fresh-fish counters. Annual import volume is about 10,000 tonnes, and demand is stable as an affordable white fish.
