Promoting ornamental creatures to be sustainable ecological economy

The 2024 Ho Chi Minh City Ornamental Creatures Week, which was organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in partnership with the People's Committee of District 1 and the Ho Chi Minh City Agricultural Industry Association at Nguyen Du Stadium on October 11.

The three-day event features 60 exhibits organized into five zones: ornamental plants and bonsai, ornamental fish, pets, reptile breeds, and equipment and supplies for the ornamental industry.

Mr. Nguyen Van Phung, President of the Ho Chi Minh City Agricultural Industry Association, stated that ornamental creatures were once a refined pastime for a select few, but they have since become indispensable components of people's spiritual lives..

"We are currently residing in a contemporary society that is characterized by a fast-paced lifestyle and a constant increase in work-related stress. In this context, it has become imperative to revert to nature and establish a living space that is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly", Mr. Nguyen Van Phung stated that fish tanks, potted plants, miniature landscapes, and pets not only serve as decorations but also as companions, bringing calm and inspiration to us all.

The production and business activities in the ornamental creature sector have expanded, thereby meeting the requirements of the local community and public welfare projects. Additionally, they are associated with political, cultural, and social events in Ho Chi Minh City and throughout the country. Ornamental products and their associated services have evolved into high-value economic commodities.

New types of ornamental creatures, such as exotic pets such as morph ball pythons, iguanas, bearded dragons, geckos, exotic cats, and rare dogs, are acquiring popularity in addition to traditional products.

The spiritual well-being of the city's residents has been improved as a result of the creative efforts of members of the ornamental creature sector, who have expanded their product offerings and enhanced their customer service. The expansion of commercial services and eco-tourism has been facilitated by the popularity of numerous ornamental gardens as tourist attractions.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the ornamental creature group's production value is a substantial component of the agricultural production structure and is acknowledged as a highly prospective product group within the OCOP (One Commune One Product) program.

During the initial eight months of 2024, Ho Chi Minh City generated 88 million ornamental fish, of which more than 9 million were exported, resulting in nearly $10 million in export revenue.

Mr. Tan Xuyen, President of the Ho Chi Minh City Ornamental Fish Association, observed that the domestic consumption rate of ornamental fish has seen an increase in recent years. In addition to direct sales, businesses have also increased the sale of ornamental fish online, which have been well-received by consumers due to their convenience and speed.

"Customers have the ability to browse online, select their preferred fish, and place an immediate order." Mr. Xuyen elaborated that sellers meticulously package and ship the fish to ensure that it is available for consumption without the need for a lengthy journey.

Nevertheless, Mr. Xuyen also noted that ornamental fish must be distinctive and innovative in order to captivate enthusiasts.

Mr. Pham Quang Hoi, Director of the Center for Consulting and Supporting Agricultural Economic Restructuring (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development), emphasized a novel aspect of this year's Ornamental Creatures Week: the event's relocation from the outskirts to the city center (District 1), which will facilitate the visitation, enjoyment, and shopping of urban residents and tourists.