18/12/2023 – Poultry farming is a key component of Vietnam’s agricultural sector, accounting for 26.7% of the industry’s structure. Despite its significance, the sector faces formidable challenges, such as disease outbreaks, food poisoning incidents, and antibiotic resistance issues.
According to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, the live poultry meat production increased by 6% and the egg production rose by 5.6% over the first nine months of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. These figures highlight the sector’s vital role in providing essential food sources and driving economic growth in rural households.
However, the shadow of avian influenza looms large, causing substantial financial losses on domestic breeders. The disease, first identified in Italy in the early 1900s and recorded in Vietnam since late 2003, has led to the culling of hundreds of millions of birds, with mortality rates reaching up to 100% in affected flocks within days.
The Department of Animal Health (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development) recorded 19 outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1) across 11 provinces, resulting in the slaughter of over 35,000 birds. The risk of further outbreaks remains high towards the end of 2023 and into early 2024.
Addressing these risks requires a multifaceted approach, including improved biosecurity measures, widespread vaccination, and proactive disease prevention strategies. The Department of Animal Health ensures sufficient vaccine availability and quality, stressing the need for vigilance during peak poultry trading periods.
To conclude, tackling avian influenza in Vietnam’s poultry sector requires concerted efforts from veterinary authorities, government agencies, and the community. By implementing comprehensive prevention and control measures, the industry can overcome current challenges and continue to thrive.
Thảo Phương
This article is tailored for an audience of farmers, investors, and researchers interested in the agricultural advancements and challenges within Vietnam. It provides a clear and informative overview, supported by recent data, and maintains an informative tone throughout. The focus on avian influenza highlights a critical issue facing the sector, calling for collective action to ensure sustainable development.
