Ca Mau aspires to lead in marine economy
Ca Mau aims to harness its full potential to drive socio-economic growth, establishing itself as a leading center for marine economy, seafood processing, and renewable energy in the Mekong Delta and nationwide.
This ambition is detailed in the Ca Mau Provincial Master Plan for 2021-2030, with a vision extending to 2050.
Cà Mau, Vietnam’s only province bordered by the sea on three sides with a 254-kilometer coastline, holds significant potential for maritime economic development. Its maritime area covers 80,000 square kilometers, including the strategic Hon Khoai island cluster. Cà Mau is one of Vietnam’s top fishing grounds and the largest shrimp farming area, contributing over USD 1 billion in annual export revenue. The marine economy accounts for around 55% of the province’s GRDP, making Cà Mau a key economic hub in the Mekong Delta and leading in seafood processing and shrimp exports.
In 2024, the province’s shrimp export turnover is projected to exceed USD 1 billion. Cà Mau boasts approximately 280,000 hectares of shrimp farming, accounting for 45% of the Mekong Delta’s total and 40% of the national total. Key products include black tiger shrimp and white-leg shrimp, solidifying Cà Mau’s position as Vietnam’s leader in shrimp production and exports.
Ca Mau is notable for its development of renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power. With its strategic location, bordered by the sea on three sides and an extensive coastline, the province has strong potential in these sectors. The average wind speed ranges from 6.3 to 7.0 m/s, and the region enjoys over 2,200 hours of sunlight annually, with more than 5.0 hours per day. Its high solar radiation, with a total heat of 9,500 to 10,000°C and an average radiation of 4.82 kWh/m² daily, further supports solar energy development.
Offshore wind projects, especially in coastal areas, are already contributing to the region’s clean energy supply and strengthening national energy security. Solar power initiatives are also expanding, reducing carbon emissions, generating stable local revenue, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
According to Ca Mau Province’s 2021-2030 plan, with a vision to 2050, the province is identified as a key area for the development of the marine and island economy in the Mekong Delta.
The province targets a 7% average annual GRDP growth rate by 2030. The marine and maritime sectors are expected to contribute 40-45% of the total budget revenue. Per capita income is projected to rise from USD 3,320 in 2021-2025 to USD 4,500- USD 4,700 in 2025-2030. Coastal areas are expected to see higher per capita income than the provincial average.
Seafood output is anticipated to grow from 3.3 million tons in 2021-2025 to 7.1 million tons by 2030, boosting seafood exports from USD 5.65 billion to USD 7 billion. Offshore wind power projects, particularly in coastal areas, are already operational, supporting clean energy and enhancing national energy security. Solar power projects are also being promoted, helping reduce carbon emissions, generate stable revenue, and foster sustainable development.
The province aims to attract investment and develop coastal infrastructure, prioritizing road connections and maritime routes linking Cà Mau to economic centers, and promoting the marine economy. It will focus on restructuring sustainable fisheries, aligning production with natural resources, and supporting coastal residents in transitioning from destructive fishing to conservation, tourism, and aquaculture. Investment in marine breeding, coastal aquaculture, and island-based fisheries is also planned. To attract high-tech aquaculture and seafood processing investments, incentives such as tax reductions, loans, and streamlined procedures will be implemented.
VFM
