Vietnam agri news update - January 2025
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Vietnam state apparatus streamlining
In an effort to enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucratic overlap, and streamline operations, the Vietnamese government has announced a major reorganization that includes merging and re-organizing a number of ministries and agencies. Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) and Ministry of Finance (MOF) will be merged.
- Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Ministry of Construction (MOC) will be merged.
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) will be merged.
- Ministry of Information and Communication and Ministry of Science and Technology will be merged.
- Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs will be merged.
MARD has temporarily paused the recruitment of civil servants and restructuring of leadership positions until its restructuring process is complete. As part of this process, MARD will merge several departments with corresponding units from MoNRE, including departments related to international cooperation, planning, finance, irrigation, crop production, livestock, forestry, and fisheries. Additionally, MARD plans to establish a Party Committee and assess the restructuring of its public service units.
Reference: MARD and MoNRE join forces to streamline political system's organisational structure
Highlights of Agriculture and Rural Development sector in 2024 of Vietnam
In 2024, Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) achieved significant milestones, despite challenges like natural disasters and climate impacts. Key achievements include the implementation of new policies and decrees, a shift towards agricultural economics, a record-high export value of $62.5 billion in agricultural products, and strong international cooperation. The sector also saw breakthroughs in infrastructure, disaster response, and sustainable projects, such as a low-emission rice farming initiative in the Mekong Delta. Additionally, MARD expanded the "One Commune One Product" (OCOP) program and hosted the first Vietnam Fruit Festival in China, enhancing market access.
Reference: https://nongnghiep.vn/10-dau-an-noi-bat-cua-nganh-nong-nghiep--ptnt-nam-2024-d415763.html
Vietnam’s agricultural exports hit record high in 2024
Vietnam's agricultural sector reached a record export value of $62.5 billion in 2024, marking an 18.7% increase from the previous year, with a trade surplus of $17.9 billion. Key products included timber, fruits, rice, and coffee, contributing significantly to the growth. Despite this success, challenges are expected in 2025, such as global economic fluctuations and trade tensions. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to strengthen product branding, expand export markets, and resolve the European Commission’s IUU fishing issue to ensure continued growth.
Reference: Vietnam’s agricultural exports hit record high in 2024 | Tuoi Tre News
EUDR delayed, Vietnam remains committed to a green development plan
Vietnam is actively preparing for the European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which aims to ensure deforestation-free agricultural trade. Despite a one-year delay in the regulation’s implementation until December 2025 for large enterprises and June 2026 for smaller ones, Vietnam has not slowed its efforts. The country has focused on building robust data systems for tracking agricultural product origins and ensuring compliance with traceability requirements. Key industries like rubber and coffee have made significant progress, with companies meeting EUDR standards. Vietnam's proactive approach has been recognized by the EU as a model for sustainable agricultural development, positioning the country as a leader in green growth and compliance with high environmental standards. This effort is seen as essential for enhancing Vietnam's competitiveness in international markets.
Reference: EUDR delayed, Vietnam remains committed to green development plan
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