According to reports from Hai Phong authorities, between 2023 and 2025, inter-disciplinary inspection teams conducted periodic reviews of food safety standards at the Ha Long Canned Food Joint Stock Company. These inspections initially concluded that the facility complied with legal regulations and maintained ISO 22000:2018 certification for food safety management.
However, an investigation into the raw material supply chain was launched in September 2025. Economic police intercepted vehicles transporting pork of unknown origin without veterinary quarantine certificates. Laboratory testing of these samples and stock within the company’s cold storage revealed the presence of African Swine Fever virus and excessive levels of bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli.
Regulatory bodies have enforced the following measures:
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Disposal of over 133 tons of contaminated raw pork.
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Destruction of dozens of tons of other frozen materials (chicken skin, pork rind, minced meat) found to be tainted.
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Recall and destruction of approximately 14,000 units of finished canned products.
The investigation determined that the contaminated meat was collected from neighboring provinces and brought into Hai Phong without mandatory veterinary oversight. A criminal case was initiated on September 12, 2025, to establish the liability of the individuals involved. Furthermore, the inspection of animal quarantine and slaughter control procedures has been extended to Hung Yen province, focusing on shipments dispatched during mid-2025.