On september 17, 2025, the AJFVC, as part of Output 3 Good Aquaculture Practices activities, held a Virtual Inception Meeting focused on improving hygiene management in fishery products. This virtual event brought together representatives from ASEAN Member States (AMSs) to share insights and create a collaborative framework aimed at enhancing hygiene standards across the region.
During the recent meeting, representatives from several countries shared their reports on the current status including the ongoing challenges of the implementation of Regional Instruments on the Hygiene Management System for Fishery Products and the adoption of Regional Guidelines for Cold Chain Management of Seafood.
A key highlight was the presentation on the development of guidelines for the cold chain management in the seafood sector, which emphasized its vital role in maintaining product quality and safety. Participants underscored the necessity of establishing a standardized approach to hygiene management that all member states can adopt, thereby promoting enhanced regional cooperation and compliance.
The meeting concluded by sharing the nominations of National Focal Points and finalizing the program scope and an implementation plan. This Virtual Inception Meeting marks a significant step for Southeast Asia in advancing hygiene management practices in the fisheries sector, with the potential for future collaborations aimed at sustainable aquatic resource management, highlighting the shared goal of promoting safe and high-quality fishery products throughout the region.
