Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) Le Minh Hoan talked about what the agricultural sector should do to further its development and make more contribution to the nation’s growth, emphasizing the need for a new mindset in developing agricultural economy, during an interview granted to reporter of the People’s Army Newspaper (PAN).
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Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan |
From agricultural production to agricultural economic development
Despite Vietnam’s record-breaking agricultural exports in 2024, market risks and untapped potential remain. Minister Le Minh Hoan emphasized that exporting a few shipments does not mean market dominance, as competitors like Thailand and Malaysia can easily do the same.
To ensure sustainable success, Vietnam must build a strong agricultural ecosystem, focusing on branding, innovation, and long-term strategy rather than just short-term profits. Developing Vietnamese agricultural products as national brands will not only boost exports but also enhance the country’s global reputation.
Minister Le Minh Hoan emphasized that the remarkable achievements of the agricultural sector in 2024 would not have been possible without the hard work of farmers, who are the backbone of the industry’s success. He noted that the MARD and other agencies primarily served as facilitators, creating connections and providing support, while the dynamism of local authorities and the pro-active involvement of farmers were the key factors behind the sector’s success.
He highlighted a shift in mindset from traditional agricultural production to agricultural economy, where local authorities no longer focus on directing production but instead play a crucial role in market connectivity and support. In the past, efforts were primarily aimed at increasing production, with little attention given to market demand. However, the sector has gradually realized that each market has unique consumer preferences, standards, and technical requirements.
With information provided by the MARD, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a timely manner, local authorities have been able to keep farmers informed, helping them meet the market needs rather than selling what they have.
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At a fruit fair in Ho Chi Minh City |
Circular agriculture and expanding cooperation
The Minister acknowledged that despite existing challenges, Vietnam’s agriculture sector holds significant potential for further development. The key question, he raised, is how to fully unlock this potential. One of the crucial solutions is to accelerate the adoption of circular agriculture, as its benefits have not been utilized yet. He stressed the need to maximize the full economic value of agricultural products rather than focusing on exports.
Regarding the sector’s further contribution to the nation’s development, the Minister highlighted that while Vietnam’s agriculture sector has already surpassed its growth targets, it must now think bigger.
At the same time, he suggested expanding agricultural cooperation with countries like Laos, Cambodia, and even African nations, where Vietnam could cultivate crops, raise livestock, and sell products locally, creating a more cost-effective and strategic export model. He warned that if Vietnam does not act quickly, other countries may seize these opportunities. This vision has been submitted to the Central Theoretical Council and proposed for inclusion in the next National Party Congress’s strategic agenda.
Translated by Minh Anh