Strengthening Sustainable Aquaculture Partnerships in Vietnam

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) is advancing sustainable growth in Vietnam’s aquaculture sector through new partnerships that reinforce shared commitments to innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship. These efforts underscore U.S. Soy’s role as a trusted partner in supporting the country’s aquaculture development and long-term food security.

To sustain this growth responsibly, collaboration across the value chain is essential. “Partnerships are at the heart of USSEC’s work,” said Carlos Salinas, USSEC Executive Director for East Asia. “They allow us to align global expertise with local innovation, creating shared value across the food and feed sectors. By working closely with industry partners, we can advance sustainability, improve productivity, and strengthen long-term food security in the region.”

Strengthening Vietnam’s leadership in sustainable aquaculture

USSEC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Vietnam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS) on 13 October 2025 to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, support international sustainability certifications, and encourage the use of U.S. Soy ingredients in aquafeeds to enhance feed quality and competitiveness. The three-year partnership also focuses on technical training, knowledge exchange, and collaboration to advance Vietnam’s aquaculture sector.

“This MOU with USSEC strengthens our shared mission to enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of Vietnam’s aquaculture sector,” said Mr. Nguyen Viet Thang, President, Vietnam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS). “Through training, cooperation, and knowledge sharing, we aim to elevate industry standards and promote the global reputation of Vietnam’s aquaculture products.”

Viet Nhat Group Recognized for Commitment to Sustainability

USSEC also marked a major milestone with Viet Nhat Group, which has for the first time featured the Sustainable U.S. Soy (SUSS) label on its aquafeed products. USSEC proudly recognized Viet Nhat Group for its leadership in sustainability, honoring the company’s role in making sustainability both a business priority and a consumer promise in a ceremony in Hanoi.

Sustainable U.S. Soy is grown using verified sustainable farming practices that enhance soil health, air quality, and water management. The SUSS on-pack label, is available to international companies at no cost and requires at least 60 percent of the product’s soy component be sustainably sourced from U.S. Soy verified through the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP).

“We are proud to feature the ‘Sustainable U.S. Soy’ label on our aquafeed products for the first time,” said Mr. Tran Trung Kien, CEO, Viet Nhat Feedmill. “This marks an important step in our commitment to sustainable sourcing and high-quality feed production that supports the long-term growth of Vietnam’s aquaculture industry.”

Sustainable Soy for a Sustainable Future

“Vietnam’s aquaculture sector continues to grow rapidly, and feed innovation is key to sustaining that progress,” said Timothy Loh, USSEC Regional Director for East Asia. “U.S. Soy offers consistent quality, verified sustainability, and the tools to enhance performance while meeting international standards for responsible production.”

These collaborations, led by USSEC’s Southeast Asia Aquaculture team, reaffirm USSEC’s commitment to building long-term partnerships across Vietnam’s aquaculture value chain. By combining technical cooperation with sustainable feed solutions, USSEC continues to support the country’s transition toward traceable, responsible, and efficient production systems.

This article is funded in part by the Soy Checkoff.