Pangasius Catfish Aquaculture Welfare

Pangasius catfish from Vietnam and Southeast Asia is one of the world's most traded seafood products, with welfare and sustainability concerns.

Key Facts

Vietnam produces over 1 million tonnes of pangasius annually, much of which is exported globally
Pangasius can tolerate low oxygen conditions but welfare is impaired at extreme stocking densities
Antibiotic use has historically been a major concern in pangasius production
Certification under ASC and other schemes has driven significant production improvements

Welfare Considerations

Pangasius catfish welfare in Vietnamese production systems has improved significantly following international scrutiny and certification scheme development. The species' physiological tolerance of low-oxygen conditions enabled very high stocking densities that, while not causing acute mortality, impair behavior and increase disease pressure. Certification requirements have driven improvements in stocking density, water quality management, and antibiotic reduction. Welfare monitoring in pangasius production is relatively underdeveloped compared to European salmon farming, and continued improvement requires investment in science-based welfare indicators specific to this species and production context.

What You Can Do

Choose pangasius certified under ASC or similar credible sustainability and welfare schemes
Ask retailers about the welfare and antibiotic use standards of their pangasius suppliers
Support continued development of welfare standards for pangasius and other Asian aquaculture species
Engage with trade bodies and certification organizations on strengthening pangasius welfare criteria