Goby farmers in Ca Mau province are enjoying strong profits as traders continue paying high prices for months.
On October 18, local reporters noted that goby fish sized 40 pieces/kg were being bought directly at ponds for VND 160,000/kg (USD 6.30), while 50-count fish fetched VND 138,000/kg. Retail prices at local and Mekong Delta markets were VND 22,000-50,000/kg higher, depending on size and timing.
Nguyen Van Toan, a farmer in Hung My commune, said his family stocked six kilograms of goby fingerlings at the end of March (lunar calendar), paying VND 25 million/kg. After four months, the fish reached market size of around 35-40 pieces/kg. “With two ponds totaling over 2,000 square meters, we expect to make more than VND 200 million (USD 7,800) in profit this crop after costs,” Toan said.
Another farmer, Nguyen Van Den from Cai Nuoc district, explained that goby prices have stayed high because demand far exceeds supply. “It’s a premium delicacy that traders are scrambling to secure. After subtracting fry and feed costs, my family will pocket about VND 300 million (USD 11,700) this season,” he said.
Traders transport the fish to restaurants and eateries across southern Vietnam. “Most of my shipments go to Ho Chi Minh City and other Mekong Delta provinces. Once served in restaurants, goby becomes a high-end specialty,” said trader Nguyen Van Dong from Ca Mau.
VFM
