Vietnam issues national technical regulation on livestock wastewater

• The decision approving the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.
  
• The environmental permit.
  
• The environmental registration document.
  

Livestock wastewater discharged into urban or residential wastewater collection and treatment systems must comply with the requirements of the investor, operator, or local authorities.

Livestock wastewater discharged into treatment systems of production zones, industrial clusters, or service complexes must follow the regulations set by the infrastructure investors of those areas.

The regulation is considered a foundation for improving environmental quality while ensuring the sustainable development of livestock farming.

Vietnam’s poultry farming: Pressures and opportunities

Vietnam’s poultry industry is experiencing a strong recovery after several years of fluctuation.

By mid-2025, the total poultry flock had increased by about 4% compared to the same period in 2024. Chicken meat and egg prices have rebounded, generating profits for both large enterprises and small-scale farmers.

However, this growth also brings environmental pressures. Vietnam has millions of small-scale poultry households, most of which lack standardized waste treatment systems.

If not properly controlled, livestock wastewater can pollute surface water, negatively impact community living conditions, and increase the risk of animal disease outbreaks.

As both domestic and international markets increasingly emphasize food safety and sustainability, stricter environmental regulations have become unavoidable.

The new standards are expected to:

• Reduce environmental pollution risks.
  
• Encourage farms and businesses to invest in proper waste treatment systems.
  
• Improve the reputation and export competitiveness of Vietnamese poultry products.
  

Moving toward sustainable livestock farming

The issuance of the National Technical Regulation on Livestock Wastewater is not only an environmental management tool but also a reminder of the livestock sector’s responsibility to society and its commitment to sustainable development.

With chicken and egg prices rebounding and markets expanding, investing in wastewater treatment will provide a long-term foundation for Vietnam’s poultry sector, and the broader livestock industry, to develop in a stable, safe, and sustainable manner.