The aquaculture sector this year expected to earn an export value of US $4.7 billion, or a year-on-year increase of 6%, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).

The sector is one of top three agricultural ones that gained export turnover of more than US $3 billion a year.

Despite of adverse weather and trade barriers, the sector still maintained strong momentum for exports, MARD said in its recent meeting.

Statistics show that total aquaculture output reached 5.1 million tons, or 3% higher than the set target.

The success is attributed to MARD’s close coordination with localities, demanding aquaculture raisers to strictly follow quality requirements from importers.

Next year, MARD targets to increase area for aquaculture to as much as 1.1 million hectare.