Official repeats ban on crawfish farming in Vietnam
Red alert against alien farming

Crayfish is considered an invasive alien animal which coud harm the country’s bio-diversification and agricultural productions. — VNA/VNS Photo

The move follows media reports that red-claw crayfish or crawfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is being imported and sold as food in localties in Vietnam.

According to the ministry, crayfish is considered an invasive, alien animal to Vietnam. It can harm the country’s bio-diversity and agricultural production as it can eat both live and dead animals and plants. Crayfish can also easily carry and spread disease to shrimp, and can burrow in and destroy dykes.

Crayfish is not on the list of aquaculture species eligible for trade in Vietnam, the ministry said.

Online stores are offering crayfish at prices of VND350,000–VND500,000 (US$15-22) per kilo. The crayfish are reportedly imported from China and the US.

VNS