Export opportunities for selected Vietnam fish products in Japan

in 1965 to a half million in 1972, and are projected at 1.6 million M.T. by 1980. The domestic fish industry has historically been protected by tariffs and quotas. These have been modified recently to assure adequate supplies at reasonable prices for the population. Fish imports were valued at nearly $630 million in 1972. Imports of 19 species and products of interest to Vietnam exceeded 164,000 M.T., worth $369 million. Shrimp, prawn and lobster products from Vietnam are of most interest to Japanese importers followed closely by cuttlefish and squid. Vietnam may profitably tap the market for these species if it can produce additional quantities meeting Japanese quality specifications at competitive prices while maintaining resource stocks. Tuna, mackerel, jellyfish, and crabs are also in strong demand, but will require additional supply cost analyses before export potential can be evaluated. The same is true for eel fry, aquarium fish, red snapper, sea bream, and several other species best for processing purposes. One factor characterizes Japan"s business climate: close economic cooperation between the private sector and government, particularly in international trade. Japanese traders prefer joint capital ventures and other forms of tied contracts for imports. Terms and conditions in these contracts must be evaluated carefully for mutual benefits.