Norwegian aquaculture genetics company Benchmark Genetics has entered a long-term strategic partnership with Vietnamese seafood producer Nam Viet Corporation (NAVICO) to develop an advanced selective breeding programme for Nile tilapia, bringing Norwegian aquaculture genetics expertise to Vietnam’s tilapia industry.
Benchmark Genetics announced the partnership on Wednesday ahead of Vietfish 2026, which will take place in Ho Chi Minh City from 19 to 21 August
The programme will focus on Nile tilapia, one of the world’s most widely farmed freshwater fish and an increasingly important species for Vietnam’s aquaculture industry.
NAVICO is one of Vietnam’s largest seafood producers while Benchmark Genetics is a global expert in designing and operating breeding programmes for more than 30 species.
“Our ambition is to position tilapia as a premium product and export from Vietnam, supported by a fully integrated and sustainable value chain,” said Mr Doan Chi Thien, Chief Executive Officer at NAVICO.
The partnership forms part of NAVICO’s strategy to meet evolving market demands. Benchmark Genetics will design the breeding programme and provide technical guidance and support.
“We are proud to contribute our global expertise in genetic improvement to support NAVICO’s ambitious goal and to help raise the standard for sustainable aquaculture in one of the world’s most important seafood-producing nations.” said Dr Morten Rye, Director of Genetics Services and International Strategies at Benchmark Genetics.
According to the companies, the partnership has already established the foundation breeding population. Future breeding cycles will focus on improving commercially important traits such as growth, survival and robustness.
The breeding programme will be implemented in Vietnam and is intended to support NAVICO’s ambition to expand premium tilapia production for export markets.
