(VOVworld) – Vietnam has set a target of catching 1.6 million tons of seafood during the next fishing season, which will run from April to October this year. A seminar was held Sunday in Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen province, to review last season’s productivity and launch activities for the new fishing season. Reports show that from last October to this March, Vietnam has harvested a total of 1.3 million tons of seafood, 8% above the target.

The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said it plans to improve fishing ground forecasts and reorganize exploitation activities in accordance each maritime region’s capacity. The Ministry has also asked to the Prime Minister for more policies to support fishermen. Deputy Minister Vu Van Tam said: "The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the State Bank of Vietnam have proposed policies to offer fishermen easier credit through programs which will provide them with capital to upgrade their vessels and boost their productivity with low interest rates so they can avoid bankruptcy."