Beef cattle genetic and breeding projects in Vietnam and the future direction

Abstract

Vietnam’s current and future human population estimates are presented. Present per capita ruminant and non-ruminant meat consumption is also reported. Based on this information, projected demand for meat from both ruminant and non-ruminant sources in 2010 will outstrip supply. It is estimated that Vietnam has the capacity to supply a high proportion of these projected shortfalls through improvement and development of its existing production systems. Specifically, this paper is focussed on describing the beef cattle breeds in Vietnam and their respective production characteristics. Further, factors that are preventing the development of coordinated beef cattle breeding strategies to improve productivity and profitability are identified and ACIAR and AusAID projects developed to improve the profitability of farmers’ beef production systems are discussed. Finally, recommendations to ensure the future development of coordinated beef cattle breeding strategies that will assist in improving the profitability of farmers’ beef enterprises are presented.