The event was the result of a joint effort by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) and the Norwegian Seafood Council.

Speaking at the event, Pham Anh Tuan, Deputy Director General of the Directorate of Fisheries said that Norway is one of the world’s largest seafood exporters, with tuna its leading export.

Currently, 78% of tuna products sold in Vietnam originated in Norway, he added.

Tuan emphasized that Norway’s experience in management and development of the tuna industry will greatly assist Vietnam in developing its tra industry and proposed establishing a seafood council to that end.

Amund Dronen Ringdal, Deputy Minister of the Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries said in turn that modernized technology is a fundamental necessity and a prerequisite factor for developing a solid seafood industry.

He expressed his hope that the event will open up a communication channel for both sides to take full advantage of each other’s experiences adding that it also offers participants the opportunity to exchange concerns related to provide green and safe aquatic products.

At present, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) is funding a project providing its guidance on methods to improve the value of production and trade of tra fish in Vietnam.

He expressed his hope that from Norway’s development model, Vietnam’s seafood sector will overcome all difficulties and secure a firm foothold in the world marketplace.