The trade in pet meat, which includes that of dogs and cats, is an issue of great concern to the public, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang.

MOFA Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang.

During the press conference held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today [July 6], a reporter brought up the proposal of the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to stop the trade and consumption of dog and cat meat in Hanoi on a trial basis in order to create a positive impression among foreign tourists.

In response, Hang said the country has already introduced various legal documents on the issue and will continue to study and refine the legal framework.

"The goal is to enforce a legal system that ensures animal welfare and protects public health," Hang said.

On July 4, a seminar titled "Trade and consumption of domestic animals (dogs and cats): Policies, Challenges and Opportunities," Ta Van Tuong, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, stressed that "the practice of slaughtering and consuming dog and cat meat creates negative feelings among tourists, especially international visitors, and foreigners living in Hanoi."
He added that Hanoi is not only a prominent political, economic, cultural and scientific center, but also a "city of peace" that attracts millions of tourists.
To address this issue, Tuong suggested implementing measures such as preventing and controlling rabies, establishing rabies-free zones, and regulating the slaughter, trade, and use of dog and cat meat in the city.
The seminar was organized by the National Assembly, marketing and communications firm Intelligentmedia, and Soi Dog Foundation International.