Vietnam-based KTCFOOD has become the latest company to participate in the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF), a global coalition of scientists and seafood industry leaders focused on the sustainability of the tuna industry.
ISSF said joining the foundation as a participating company signals KTCFOOD’s commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of tuna fisheries worldwide. Every company that joins the foundation agrees to voluntarily comply with its conservation measures, and ISSF members are independently audited every year to ensure they demonstrate transparency and accountability.
ISSF regularly releases reports on the status of global tuna stocks and advocates for measures like enhanced monitoring and conservation at regional fishery management organizations.
“KTCFOOD’s decision to join ISSF reflects a commitment to investing in a better future for tuna fisheries through credible, science-based action,” ISSF President Susan Jackson said. “We are proud to welcome them to our global network of changemakers. With every new partner, we strengthen our commitment to building a seafood supply chain that is more transparent and sustainable while advancing the health of tuna stocks and protecting the broader marine ecosystem through collaborative conservation efforts.”
With KTCFOOD’s decision to join, ISSF has reached 24 participating companies globally, including major tuna companies like Thai Union, StarKist, and The Bumble Bee Seafood Group.
KTCFOOD Head of Quality Management Nguyen Huynh Nhu told SeafoodSource that joining ISSF signifies its desire to deepen its commitment to advancing the sustainability of global tuna fisheries and ocean health.
“It also means joining a respected and expanding network of seafood sustainability leaders,” Nguyen said. “Our motivation to join ISSF stems from its global reputation for promoting sustainability in tuna fisheries through science-based conservation initiatives and policy advocacy. We believe that aligning with ISSF strengthens our ability to contribute meaningfully to responsible seafood practices.”
KTCFOOD exports canned seafood including mackerel, sardines, and tuna to more than 36 different countries. The company, based in Kien Giang, Vietnam, was founded in 2012 and has met HACCP, Dolphin Safe, Halal, and ISO 22000 standards.
Nguyen told SeafoodSource sustainability is a core value for the company, as is product quality.
“As a global manufacturer and exporter of canned seafood, we recognize the significant influence our operations have on the seafood supply chain,” Nguyen said. “We are proud to be a three-time recipient of the Vietnam Value Award – an honor granted by the Vietnamese government to companies that exemplify excellence in quality, sustainability, and continuous improvement.”
Nguyen added its membership in ISSF is predicated by the role tuna plays as a food source and its importance to the global economy.
“Protecting this resource is essential not only for today but for future generations and the long-term health of our oceans,” Nguyen said.
