An Giang province is scaling up marine fish farming using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) cages under VietGAP standards, linking production with markets and eco-tourism to build a greener, more resilient coastal economy.
Expanding HDPE cage farming
In 2024, the An Giang Agricultural Extension Center launched three pilot sites for grouper farming in HDPE cages in the Phu Quoc special zone. Each 192 m³ unit was stocked with nearly 3,000 juveniles and fed on commercial diets.
After 10 months of culture, participating farmer Huynh Tuyet Hanh from An Thoi Ward reported strong performance: an average weight of 1.2 kg, 89% survival, and a total harvest exceeding 3 tons. With market prices around VND 170,000/kg, her family earned over VND 150 million in profit.
“Compared with traditional wooden cages, HDPE systems are far more durable and can withstand stronger waves, allowing us to move further offshore,” Hanh said. “The fish grow faster and stay healthier on industrial feed, and we feel much more secure with this new method.”
HDPE cages are flexible and resistant to wave action, reducing storm damage. Using commercial feed also cuts labor, eases pressure on wild fish stocks, and limits plastic pollution from conventional trash-fish practices.
According to Danh Nhiet, an extension officer overseeing the project, the province will expand the model to nine more sites in 2025, totaling 1,600 m³. Training on husbandry and disease control will accompany the rollout, alongside efforts to link farmers with value-chain partners to improve market access and reduce risks.
So far, An Giang has developed 120 HDPE marine cages with a combined capacity of more than 4,700 m³, culturing grouper, cobia, yellowfin pompano, and giant sea bass. The adoption of HDPE cage technology is helping local aquaculture adapt to rougher sea conditions, minimize environmental impacts, and advance the province’s green marine economy goals.
Linking aquaculture with markets and tourism
In 2025, the An Giang Agricultural Extension Center will collaborate with the National Agricultural Extension Center to establish a VietGAP-certified HDPE cage model for yellowfin pompano, covering 256 m³. The initiative aims to connect producers with markets and integrate aquaculture with eco-tourism, generating shared value for farmers and communities alike.
VietGAP certification ensures full traceability, access to modern retail channels, and stronger branding for Phu Quoc – An Giang seafood products.
“Developing marine aquaculture with HDPE cages under VietGAP and industrial standards not only diversifies coastal livelihoods but also supports Vietnam’s national program for sustainable marine aquaculture,” Nhiet explained. “It helps reduce fishing pressure on wild stocks, protects coastal ecosystems, and strengthens the blue economy in the Mekong Delta.”
Through scientific management, technical innovation, and a commitment to environmental stewardship, HDPE cage farming is emerging as a transformative path for Vietnam’s western coast, enabling communities to thrive while protecting marine resources and advancing toward a sustainable ocean-based economy.
VFM
