Analysis of technical and financial efficiency of intensive white leg shrimp farming in Tien Giang province, Vietnam

Abstract

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the technical and financial effectiveness of the current intensive culture of white leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in Tien Giang province, Vietnam. A survey was conducted from December 2021 to April 2022 to collect data from shrimp farms in the Go Cong Tay district, which is a planned area of this province for brackish shrimp farming. The results showed that, in terms of technique, most farmers have a lot of experience and a high level of application of science and technology. The average size of the culture pond (0.26 ha pond–1), stocking density (78.83 ind. m–2), survival rate (85.28％), FCR (0.26), and harvested shrimp size (58 ind. kg–1) were similar to other Mekong Delta provinces. There were significant differences in the incomplete water sedimentation and treatment ponds and the major use of groundwater for shrimp farming. In terms of finance, the mean yield was 12,345.97 kg ha–1 crop–1 and was higher than other provinces in the Mekong Delta. However, the mean profit and the total profitability were 17,575 USD ha–1 crop–1 and 0.38, respectively, which was lower than the previous year in the Tien Giang province because of the high input costs. The results of this study show the necessary requirements for the sustainable development of the model of intensive shrimp farming in Tien Giang Province, including (1) the complete rebuilding of the system of farming, water sedimentation, and treatment ponds; (2) the efficient solution for using the surface water; and (3) the support of local authorities, aiming to help farmers reduce input costs and increase profits.