1. Origins and Fishing Grounds
Horse mackerel species are widely distributed across various oceans, including the Pacific and Indian Oceans, where Vietnam’s coastline is located. In Vietnam, is found in abundance along the central and southern coastal areas, particularly in provinces such as Phu Yen, Binh Dinh, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, and Kien Giang.
Fishermen typically catch horse mackerel using diverse methods like purse seines, gillnets, or trolling. Horse mackerel often forms large schools, making it a target for high-volume catches. The peak fishing season generally occurs from March to September of the lunar calendar, when conditions are favorable and the fish are closer to shore.
2. Nutritional Value
Horse mackerel is a highly nutritious food, offering significant health benefits. 100g of horse mackerel meat can contain:
- Protein: Approximately 18-20g, providing essential amino acids vital for muscle growth and repair.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A considerable amount of Omega-3s (EPA and DHA), crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, enhancing brain and eye function, and combating inflammation.
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, B12, and other B-group vitamins, supporting immune function, nerve health, and energy metabolism.
- Minerals: A good source of essential minerals like phosphorus, calcium, iron, zinc, and iodine, which are necessary for strong bones and teeth, healthy blood, and various physiological functions.
Given its rich nutrient profile, horse mackerel is an excellent dietary choice for all ages, especially for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
3. Export Products from Horse Mackerel
Horse mackerel is processed into various forms for export:
- Fresh/Frozen Whole: Common, maintaining freshness.
- Frozen Fillets/Cuts: Convenient for cooking.
- Dried: Long-lasting, with a distinct flavor.
- Fish Cakes: Made from ground fish meat.
- Other Processed Products: Seasoned or canned fish.
4. Export Markets
Vietnamese horse mackerel and its processed products are currently exported to numerous markets worldwide, including:
- Asian Countries: This is the primary and most promising market, including China, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Demand for in these nations is high due to similar culinary traditions and geographical proximity.
- European Countries: Several European nations, such as Russia and Ukraine.
- Other Potential Markets: The Middle East and certain African countries are increasingly opening their doors to Vietnamese seafood products.
5. Advantages and Disadvantages for Vietnamese Fishermen
Advantages:
- Abundant Natural Resources: Vietnam’s coastal waters boast significant horse mackerel populations, facilitating active fishing operations.
- Long-Standing Fishing Expertise: Vietnamese fishermen possess generational knowledge and refined skills in catching.
- Developed Port and Infrastructure: Major fishing ports in central and southern Vietnam provide strong support for fish transportation, procurement, and preliminary processing.
- Stable Market Demand: Both domestic and international markets show consistent demand for horse mackerel, ensuring a reliable outlet for the product.
- Government Support Policies: The government actively implements policies that encourage the development of the seafood industry, including aid for fishermen to venture further offshore and modernize their vessels.
Disadvantages:
- Climate Change and Resource Depletion: Stocks can be negatively impacted by climate change, environmental pollution, and overfishing, leading to reduced yields.
- Unstable Market Prices: The price of can fluctuate significantly based on season, catch volume, and market demand, directly affecting fishermen’s incomes.
- Increasing Operational Costs: Rising costs for fuel, fishing gear, and other operational expenses put considerable pressure on fishermen’s profitability.
- Limitations in Preservation and Processing Technology: Many small-scale fishermen lack access to modern preservation and processing technologies, which can compromise product quality or lead to wastage.
- Intense Competition: Vietnamese horse mackerel faces stiff competition from other countries with similar marine resources.
- Lack of Investment Capital: Many fishermen struggle to secure the necessary capital to upgrade their boats, fishing equipment, and preservation facilities.
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