CURRENT STATUS AND DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS FOR MARINE AQUACULTURE IN CAM PHA, QUANG NINH PROVINCE

Abstract

This study assesses the current status and proposes solutions for the development of marine aquaculture in Cam Pha, Quang Ninh province. Research methods included field surveys, secondary data analysis, and expert interviews. Cam Pha possesses favorable natural conditions, with an extensive water surface area (~150 km²), diverse ecosystems, and good shelter from storms, making it suitable for both marine fish and mollusk farming. Overall, water quality meets aquaculture standards, with stable salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen and pH levels. At present, marine aquaculture is concentrated in seven wards, primarily nearshore, on a household scale, at high densities and remains largely unplanned. In 2023, marine fish farming covered approximately 13.9 ha, yielding 5,373 tonnes, with key species including grouper, golden pompano, sea bass, and cobia. Survival rates remain low (50 - 70%), feed is mainly low-value fish, and most seedstock is sourced from outside the province. Mollusk farming (oyster, blood ark clam) covered 39.4 ha, producing 1,536.6 tonnes, valued at around VND 15.4 billion; however, farming technology remains basic and seed quality is unstable. Development planning is inconsistent, infrastructure is lacking (ports, anchorages, hatcheries, processing facilities), diseases are common, value chains are poorly connected, markets rely heavily on traders, and value addition is low. The study proposes key solution groups: spatial planning and zoning, species selection, infrastructure and logistical development, market expansion, and enhanced environmental monitoring. The proposed measures in this study provide an essential basis for guiding the modernization and efficiency of marine aquaculture, thereby contributing to the implementation of the Master Plan for Marine Aquaculture Development to 2030, with a vision to 2045.