Over the past decade, Vietnam’s clam farming and harvesting sector has achieved remarkable progress, steadily strengthening its position in international markets through the adoption of sustainable practices and globally recognized certification schemes. Accompanying this journey has been a number of dedicated experts, among whom Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap, a fisheries specialist of the Vietnam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS), has played a significant role.
With years of commitment to clam farming communities, seafood enterprises, and development organizations both in Vietnam and internationally, Mr. Lap has made valuable contributions to promoting the sustainable development of Vietnam’s clam industry, enhancing product value, and improving access to premium export markets.
Mr Dinh Xuan Lap - Deputy director of ICAFIS, Vietnam Fisheries Society
2020: A Historic Milestone – The World's First ASC-Certified Clam Farm
The year 2020 marked a historic achievement for Vietnam’s clam sector when Lenger Seafoods Vietnam (Lenger Farm), located in Nam Dinh Province, became the first clam farming operation in the world to achieve Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification for Meretrix lyrata clams.
Throughout the certification process, Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap provided technical support and professional guidance in developing management systems that met ASC requirements. His contribution helped position Vietnam’s clam farming model as a pioneering example of sustainable shellfish aquaculture worldwide.
This achievement not only demonstrated the capability of Vietnamese enterprises but also opened a new chapter for Vietnam’s clam industry on the global sustainable seafood map.
2022: The Second ASC-Certified Clam Farming Area in Vietnam and the World
Building upon the success achieved in Nam Dinh, the Kim Son clam farming area in Ninh Binh Province, linked with Hasuvimex Company, was recognized in 2022 as the second farming area in Vietnam and globally to achieve ASC certification for Meretrix lyrata clams.
Mr. Lap continued to provide technical assistance in strengthening farm management systems and improving compliance with environmental, social, and traceability requirements under international standards.
The certification of Kim Son further established Vietnam as a global pioneer in ASC-certified clam production and demonstrated the effectiveness of community-based management models for coastal clam fisheries.
2023: Expanding Vietnam’s ASC Clam Footprint
Within the framework of the Sustainable Clam Value Chain Project (SCBV), implemented by ICAFIS and Oxfam in Vietnam, Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap continued to support clam farming areas in Tra Vinh and Tien Giang Provinces.
Through the collective efforts of local communities, enterprises, development partners, and technical experts, these two clam farming areas became the third and fourth ASC-certified clam operations in the world.
The successive achievements in Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh, Tra Vinh, and Tien Giang have positioned Vietnam as the global leader in ASC-certified clam production while enhancing the re
Contributing to the Sustainability of the Ben Tre – Vinh Long MSC Clam Fishery
In addition to his contributions to ASC-certified aquaculture, Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap has served as a Lead MSC Assessor for the Ben Tre – Vinh Long clam fishery from 2019 to the present.
The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification is one of the world's most respected standards for sustainable fisheries. The successful maintenance of MSC certification over multiple assessment cycles has played an important role in safeguarding and enhancing the reputation of Vietnamese clams in international markets.
Through assessment activities, technical consultations, and professional support, Mr. Lap has contributed to promoting responsible harvesting practices, conserving marine resources, and strengthening community-based fisheries management.
Elevating Vietnamese Clams to the Global Stage
Looking back on this journey, Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap’s contributions extend far beyond supporting farms and fisheries in achieving international certifications. More importantly, he has helped promote a culture of sustainability, foster collaboration among stakeholders across the clam value chain, and strengthen the global image of Vietnamese clam products.
From Vietnam’s coastal tidal flats to demanding markets in Europe, North America, and beyond, the development of Vietnam’s clam industry reflects the dedication of individuals committed to sustainable growth. Among them, Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap stands out as one of the professionals who has helped elevate Vietnamese clams to the global stage, reinforcing the position of Vietnam’s seafood sector in the international marketplace.
PV: Vietnam Fiheries News
