Farmgate shrimp prices in Dong Thap province have fallen sharply since the 2026 Lunar New Year, squeezing margins for local producers despite limited raw material supply.
Tan Phu Dong commune, one of Dong Thap’s largest aquaculture hubs, has around 6,320 hectares under farming, dominated by intensive shrimp operations. Although supply of raw shrimp is not abundant at present, prices have dropped significantly.
Ngo Minh Tuan, director of Tuan Hien Aquaculture Co. Ltd. in Tan Phu Dong, said his company operates about 40 hectares of high-tech shrimp ponds. Whiteleg shrimp sized at 30 pieces per kilogram are currently fetching around VND 140,000 per kg, while 40-count shrimp are trading at VND 118,000-120,000 per kg. The company is selling 30 metric tons of 30-count whiteleg shrimp at VND 140,000 per kg.
“Over the past few days, whiteleg shrimp prices have edged down continuously. Around the Lunar New Year, 30-count shrimp were selling for VND 180,000-200,000 per kg, but prices have now fallen sharply,” Tuan said. Black tiger shrimp prices have also declined in line with the broader trend, although farming volumes are limited. Overall supply remains relatively tight.
He attributed the steep price drop to sluggish export demand. “At current levels, we are still making a profit, but margins are much thinner than a few months ago. Smaller, traditional farmers are likely to face greater difficulties due to higher risks,” he added.
In late 2025 and early 2026, whiteleg shrimp prices surged to multi-year highs, delivering strong returns for farmers. At one point, 30-count shrimp reached VND 200,000 per kg, while 25-count shrimp climbed to VND 220,000 per kg, the highest levels recorded in roughly five years.
VFM
