Tonnes of ivory seized in 2015

This move comes in the run-up to a summit in Hanoi about preventing illegal wild animal trade. "Crushing the tusks and horns is a strong statement that can show our determination to fight against wild animal trade," said the ministry's representative.

The ministry hopes it could create a big event that grab public's attention to raise awareness about the stupidity in using such animal-based products. It also wants to spread the message that Vietnam will show no mercy to traders of illegal animal products.

Films, documentaries and art performances about animal poaching will be shown at the event along with the disposal in the autumn. Part of the leftover powder will be used for educational purpose or displayed at museums, with the rest thrown away into the Red River. Famous artists will be invited to participate in the event and take a pledge to never use products made from protected wild animals.

The Government Office asked the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Public Security to submit their opinions about the event by April 20.

In 2015, tonnes of elephant tusks and rhino horns were seized while being transported into Vietnam. One of the biggest cases occurred last August as eight tonnes of elephant tusks from Mozambique and Nigeria were discovered after going through Taiwan to Tien Sa Port in Danang City.