Fisheries department plans big hike in giant freshwater prawns output
The Department of Fisheries aims to increase the output of giant freshwater prawns to 40,000 tonnes per year by 2022, from the current production capacity of 31,000 tonnes per year, said Meesak Phakdikhong, the department's director-general.
The increase in production would raise the estimated value to Bt7.9 billion.
“Thailand has the capacity to become the world’s major production base for giant freshwater prawns for export, while the government would provide support in terms of technology, innovation and funding to farmers and entrepreneurs to maximise their production capacity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chalermchai Suwanrak, director of Fresh Water Fishery Research and Development Division, has added that Department of Fisheries plans to increase sales channels for giant freshwater prawns both domestic and overseas, especially in Chinese markets that have high purchasing power and high demand for both frozen and refrigerated prawns.
“We would also create a brand of Thai giant freshwater prawns, as well as organise trade exhibitions overseas to increase brand awareness,” he added.
“Currently the department is promoting the GAP [Good Aquaculture Practice] standard among 600 prawn farms in Chachoengsao, Suphan Buri, Ratchaburi and Nakhon Pathom provinces,” said Chalermchai. “We are also developing a method to raise giant freshwater prawn in mud ponds, as well as improving a biosafety standard for prawn farmers to prevent diseases and maximise their production.”