A shrimp processing factory in Soc Trang. The province’s export turnover in the first five months of the year reached US$470 million. — VNA Photo

Soc Trang Province’s exports rose by 23.5 per cent year-on-year in the first five months to US$470 million.

Seafood and rice were the key exports and both saw high growth in shipments, especially to markets such as the US and Europe. Seafood shipments were up 43.53 per cent.

Footwear, textile and machinery exports saw slight increases.

Soc Trang Province has not been too badly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to its People’s Committee.

It has been creating a favourable environment for the seafood and rice sector to develop, such as by increasing shrimp farming areas and soliciting investment in processing. More and more farmers are adopting intensive shrimp farming models and modern technologies.

Processors are also having steady access to raw materials, and last year the province was quick in capitalising on the rising global demand for rice due to the pandemic, according to its Department of Industry and Trade.

The province targets exports of over $1 billion this year. Last year, its exports grew at a faster rate than any other Mekong Delta province’s, reaching $990 million. — VNS