Quang Ninh: Premier shrimp farm achieves milestone with first harvest
Dang Ba Manh, a former construction contractor and real estate trader, has ventured into high-tech shrimp farming with an impressive investment of over 100 billion VND in Cong Hoa commune, Cam Pha City, Quang Ninh. His facility, one of the most advanced in the region, recently celebrated its first successful harvest.
Innovative high-tech shrimp farming takes off
With a background in construction and real estate, Manh amassed significant wealth before transitioning to agriculture. Motivated by his agricultural roots from Gia Loc, Hai Duong, he decided to invest in high-tech shrimp farming when traditional sectors faced economic difficulties.
Starting in late 2021, Manh researched shrimp farming techniques in southern Vietnam and, by October 2022, began constructing a state-of-the-art shrimp farm. The facility spans 6 hectares, with 4 hectares dedicated to water treatment and storage, and 2 hectares for shrimp cultivation, divided into 12 ponds. Each pond ranges from 500 to 1,000 square meters, complemented by 7 additional ponds for water supply.
Despite facing significant hurdles, including complex investment procedures and funding challenges, Manh’s determination drove him to continue. He sold his assets and sought financial support from family and friends, eventually realizing his vision. By early 2024, the high-tech shrimp farm in Quang Ninh was completed as planned.
Credit: Vu Cuong/Nongnghiep
The first harvest and future prospects
Manh attributes the success of his shrimp farming model to several factors: the use of clean, natural seawater for optimal environmental conditions, and a sophisticated infrastructure that supports year-round production. The facility employs advanced technology, including improved tarpaulin houses and a three-phase system, to regulate environmental factors and ensure the best conditions for shrimp growth.
“Farming shrimp in advanced tarpaulin houses with a three-phase system allows us to control environmental variables effectively, enabling continuous production and harvest throughout the year,” Manh explained.
The farm’s design includes adjustable tarpaulin heights to prevent issues such as gas buildup or excessive humidity, which can affect shrimp development. Manh’s expertise in construction has been instrumental in optimizing these operational aspects.
In early March 2024, Manh stocked three ponds at various growth stages. By July 2024, the farm harvested over 50 tons of shrimp. Despite a lower market price of 120,000 VND per kilogram due to high supply, Manh remains optimistic that prices will rise closer to the Lunar New Year.
During a recent visit, Trinh Thi Minh Thanh, Deputy Secretary of the Quang Ninh Provincial Party Committee, commended the innovative technology and operational approach of Manh’s farm. She emphasized the importance of promoting and expanding such models to benefit local farmers and the economy.
Looking ahead, the Cam Pha High-Tech Shrimp Farming Cooperative plans to seek approval to expand its operations to over 100 hectares. If successful, this expansion could significantly increase annual production, catering to both domestic and export markets.
VFM
