Norwegian Seafood Council on how to elevate Vietnam's food scene

Why is Vietnam the focus to expand seafood collaboration?

It is an honour to be in this exciting position. Vietnam's vibrant market and profound appreciation for seafood make it an ideal partner for Norway, renowned for its commitment to providing top-quality, eco-friendly seafood to households and discerning chefs across the globe.

Åshild Nakken will officially start her four-year term from July 2024

Our shared passion for culinary excellence and sustainability sets the stage for an exciting collaboration. Drawing inspiration from the majestic beauty of Norway's breathtaking fjords, we aspire to infuse Vietnam's rich culinary landscape with a touch of Nordic flair, offering a truly unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

From the succulent richness of Norwegian salmon to the juicy sweetness of our crab, we are unwavering in our dedication to delivering the freshest and most sustainably sourced seafood options. With each dish we create, we aim to tantalise the taste buds and honour our shared commitment to preserving our oceans and planet for future generations.

We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate closely with Vietnamese partners to turn this vision into a reality because we firmly believe that every meal should be a harmonious blend of exquisite taste and unwavering sustainability.

Norwegian seafood is famed for its quality and sustainability. Can you share more about why this matters, especially for Vietnamese consumers and businesses?

Norway’s cold, clear waters are home to some of the best seafood in the world. But beyond taste, how we catch and farm our fish sets us apart. For instance, our salmon is raised in open-net pens, allowing for natural water flow and minimising disease risk. Similarly, our cod is caught using longlines, a method that reduces bycatch and habitat damage, ensuring the sustainability of our oceans.

Norwegian Seafood Council commits to collaborating with Vietnamese businesses to develop sustainable and top-quality seafood

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life ingrained in every aspect of our seafood production. We manage our resources carefully, ensuring plenty of fish for future generations while preserving the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. For Vietnamese consumers, it's not just about enjoying your favourite dishes today but also knowing that you can continue to savour them tomorrow and for years to come, thanks to our unwavering commitment to sustainability.

How does the partnership between NSC and Vietnamese businesses work, and what is in it for local partners?

Think of it as a bridge connecting Norwegian seas with Vietnamese shores. For local businesses, it's not just about acquiring seafood products; it's gaining access to a diverse array of top-tier, sustainable seafood offerings. This partnership opens doors to a boost in quality offerings that can set any business apart in the competitive market. Our collaboration with Vietnamese partners has significantly increased their seafood sales and brand reputation.

However, it's more than just about the products themselves; it's about the wealth of knowledge and insights we bring. We're here to share valuable insights into market trends, consumer preferences, and innovative practices. It's a comprehensive package to foster growth and spark new possibilities within Vietnam's dynamic food scene.

We firmly believe in the power of collaboration and mutual development, and this partnership exemplifies our commitment to driving positive change and innovation within the Vietnamese seafood industry. We can create a sustainable and thriving ecosystem that benefits businesses, consumers, and the planet, and we're excited to be a part of this journey with you.

Looking ahead, how is the NSC planning to support and promote sustainable seafood consumption in Vietnam?

We are rolling our sleeves and diving into Vietnam’s culinary scene with various activities designed to make sustainable seafood a central part of the diet. Imagine cooking shows igniting the passion for seafood in young chefs, collaborative recipe development sessions that bring a Norwegian twist to Vietnamese classics, and sustainability talks that spark meaningful conversations. It's about creating a ripple effect beyond just eating fish and understanding and appreciating where it comes from.

The journey of Norwegian seafood into the heart of Vietnam is an exciting voyage that we're just beginning to embark on. Who knows what delicious possibilities lie ahead? One thing's for sure: the future of seafood dining in Vietnam looks bright, sustainable, and tasty.

Vietnam and Norway promote trade cooperation through online conference Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade in collaboration with the Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries, the Vietnamese Embassy in Norway, the Norwegian Trade Policy Department (Innovation Norway), and other agencies will organise an online trade conference on November 25 to connect Vietnamese and Norwegian businesses and boost bilateral trade.

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Norway and Vietnam to boost aquaculture ties The Norwegian Embassy in Hanoi and the Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) last week co-organised a seminar to discuss cooperation opportunities in aquaculture and seafood.

Norway and Vietnam collaborate on energy transition The participation of the private sector is seen as an important aspect of implementing Power Development Plan VIII and promoting Vietnam's goal of transitioning from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy sources.

Norway stands ready to collaborate with Vietnam in EPR policy and practices Vietnam is applying regulations on extended producer responsibility to its production industries. Deputy head of mission from the Norwegian Embassy in Vietnam, Mette Moglestue, talked with VIR’s Hoang Oanh about the experiences of her country in effectively implementing such regulations as well as the opportunities for cooperation with Vietnam.