According to the People’s Committee of Ca Mau Province in Vietnam, the region’s shrimp production has been enjoying a strong upward trend in both output and export value. The province’s shrimp export turnover reached a remarkable USD 1 billion in 2023 alone.

EU Export Regulations Pose Challenges

However, the shrimp industry in Ca Mau Province is facing a major hurdle due to new regulations imposed by the EU. As of this year, all shrimp products bound for the EU market must be included in Vietnam’s residue monitoring program. This requirement has caused significant issues for enterprises that have signed contracts to export banana prawn and jinga shrimp to the EU market.

Unfortunately, banana prawn and jinga shrimp have not been included in Vietnam’s residue monitoring program, leading to a series of problems for exporters. Enterprises that have committed to shipping these products to the EU market are now facing fines and penalties, resulting in lost business and damaged relationships with customers.

Difficult Times Ahead for Ca Mau Producers

As a result of these challenges, enterprises in Ca Mau Province that plan to export banana prawn and jinga shrimp to the EU market are likely to face difficulties in the near future. The situation is particularly concerning given the significance of the EU market to Vietnam’s shrimp industry.

In response to these challenges, the People’s Committee of Ca Mau Province has proposed to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development that banana prawn and jinga shrimp be added to Vietnam’s residue monitoring program starting from 2024. Meanwhile, the Ministry is working with EU authorities to facilitate exports of these products as soon as possible.