地理ジャーナルと自然災害
オープンアクセス

概要

Efficiency of different integrated agro-aquaculture systems in the Red River Delta, Vietnam

Nguyen Van Huong*, Tran Phu Cuong, Tran Thi Nhan Thu, Philippe Lebai

Freshwater aquaculture production systems are closely related to integrated agro-aquaculture systems (IAA). Four systems were identified in freshwater aquaculture in the Red River Delta of Vietnam. VAC systems were widely present both inside and outside inhabited areas. The system was defined as agricultural diversification and nutrient linkages between V (orchard), A (pond) and C (animal) components, relying on on-farm resources and off-farm integration and linkages with other human activities. The development of freshwater aquaculture systems was highly diverse and dynamic.

This paper presents the economic efficiency and effectiveness of four freshwater fish production systems. We find clear evidence that the traditional VAC system is a sustainable food supply model for developing countries. Farms operating VAC systems can easily diversify their agricultural activities, food, ingredients, surplus employment, and income. In particular, income diversification was a practical strategy for rural farms to reduce the vulnerability of their agricultural practices in both production and market risks. Its advantages indicate that the VAC system is likely to ensure an increasingly important role in food security and rural development in northern Vietnam, even in the context of a gradual transition to urbanization and industrialization and loss of farmland.