Rang Dong Seafood Cooperative: Effective Collective Economic Model Asserted

Rang Dong Seafood Cooperative is now managing 900 ha of coastal farms culturing clams (Meretrix lyrata). It is one of 10 biggest seafood cooperatives in Ben Tre province by revenues. Since its establishment, it has tried its best to maintain stable operation, manage its clam-farming area, and ensure employment for workers with rising incomes.

 

Rang Dong Cooperative was established on July 2, 1997. With its tireless effort, the cooperative has confirmed its name with sustainable and effective development. Mai Van Tien, Head of Management Board, said the success of Rang Dong is built from its operating compliance to Cooperative Law and its care for rights and interests of members. Rang Dong also actively participates in local social welfare activities like building houses and schools, supporting poor students, visiting childless families, etc.

 

In 2012, Rang Dong has carried out many efficient production and business plans. It applies solutions to improve the quality of farms to reduce the rate of dead clams. In the first five months, the cooperative harvested 400 tonnes of clams worth VND35.75 billion. It paid VND5.47 billion of salaries for workers and paid interests for members six times with a total value of VND12.71 billion, an average of VND1.496 million per member (equal in 2011). The quality of its hard clams has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). In 2012, Rang Dong Cooperative is estimated to earn VND60 billion of revenues.

 

Over 15 years of construction and development, Rang Dong is proven to be the most successful cooperative in Vietnam to date. From this solid foundation, the cooperative will surely reap more success, contribute to the position of collective economic model, and implement local socioeconomic tasks.