On 13/2, Du Thai Binh, Deputy Director of Du Thai Binh Co., Ltd. in Nam Can commune, stated that crab prices have continuously risen since the beginning of the month. This surge is attributed to increased demand for Tet inventory and active purchasing by Chinese traders.

Ca Mau farmers harvest crabs. *Photo: Chuc Ly*

Currently, brick crabs weighing 300-400 grams each are priced at approximately 800,000 VND per kg. Larger brick crabs, those over 400 grams each, fetch 1.1 million VND per kg. Male crabs weighing 300 grams or more are purchased for about 500,000 VND per kg, while meat crabs range from 450,000-500,000 VND per kg. These prices apply in Nam Can commune for crabs without ties.

Compared to New Year's Day, the price of large brick crabs has increased by approximately 150,000-200,000 VND per kg. In early January, prices commonly ranged from 850,000-950,000 VND. Relative to the 11th lunar month, current prices are 300,000-500,000 VND per kg higher, depending on the type.

According to traders, prices are showing signs of stabilizing as businesses reduce exports to foreign markets. From now until before Tet, crabs will primarily be consumed domestically, making further price increases unlikely. Prices are expected to fluctuate again after the second day of Tet, when foreign partners resume purchasing.

Ca Mau currently has about 365,000 hectares dedicated to intercropped crab farming within shrimp ponds. This area yields over 35,000 tons annually, generating billions of VND in revenue. By 2030, the locality aims to increase sea crab output to 36,500 tons and establish a consumption supply chain covering 30% or more of the output.

Chuc Ly