ShrimpTech Vietnam 2.0: Driving Net-Zero Ambitions for Sustainable Shrimp Farming

Launched in 2020, the ShrimpTech Vietnam project is a two-phase initiative aimed at achieving net-zero shrimp production in Vietnam. Phase 1 focused on research and feasibility, while Phase 2 (2023–2026) moves into full-scale implementation.

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Phase 1 (2020–2023): Research & Feasibility

This stage concentrated on research and development, evaluating how sustainable practices could be adapted to local farming environments. The goal was to ensure these practices would be practical and cost-effective for local farmers.

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Phase 2 (2023–2026): Implementation & Real-World Impact

According to Gian Muus, Sales Director at Tiptopp Aquaculture, 'The second phase, ShrimpTech Vietnam 2.0, is all about implementation. From 2023 to 2026, we’re applying the findings from the first phase to achieve a sustainable shrimp industry.'

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Consortium Partners

Tiptopp Aquaculture is one of seven key contributors, working alongside:

• Skretting : sustainable feed producer

• Rynan Technologies :  energy-efficient farm technology

• ShrimpVet: disease detection and prevention

• Fecom:  pond construction specialists

• Topsy Baits:  live feed supplier

The project was initiated at the request of the Royal Dutch Embassy in Hanoi, with strong backing from the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO).

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Sector Context & Challenges

Vietnam’s shrimp farming, primarily in the Mekong Delta, is one of the largest globally and a leader in black tiger and L. Vannemai shrimp production. However, the industry faces critical issues: high disease prevalence, overuse of antibiotics, and environmental degradation, including the destruction of over half of the country’s mangrove forests.

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Project Goals & Innovations

• Education & Capacity Building: Deliver training, seminars, and awareness campaigns for farmers and students.

• Solar Energy Integration: Reduce energy use per tonne of shrimp from 3,000 kWh to 1,500 kWh with Rynan's systems, eliminating the need for energy storage.

• Probiotic Solutions by Tiptopp: Reduce feed conversion ratio (FCR) in nurseries from ~1.6 to below 1.0, improve water quality, enhance shrimp health, and lower antibiotic dependence.

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Barriers & Considerations

Low global shrimp prices are limiting farmers’ ability to invest in new technologies. Vietnam also faces competition from lower-cost producers like Ecuador and India. The challenge remains to make sustainability accessible and cost-effective.

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Environmental Strategies

• Mangrove Integration: Dedicate 1–2 hectares of mangrove forest per 10 hectares of shrimp pond to support coastal protection, water purification, and biodiversity.

• Additional outreach through universities, stakeholder roundtables, and a documentary to connect consumers with sustainable shrimp supply chains.

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The Road to Net-Zero Shrimp

Long-term sustainability depends on continued innovation and strong cross-sector collaboration between Dutch and Vietnamese partners. ShrimpTech Vietnam 2.0 sets a precedent for responsible shrimp farming, aiming to revolutionize the industry and benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment alike.