Vietnam focuses on technology and quality to sustain fruit and vegetable exports

Vietnam is currently refocusing its efforts on integrating advanced technology and emphasizing quality to maintain its position in the global fruit and vegetable exports market. According to reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the country has set ambitious targets to achieve $8 billion in export value by 2025. However, recent figures indicate a challenging start; in the first five months of the year, Vietnam experienced a 16% drop in export value, totaling $2.24 billion.

Despite this slump, some key products have shown promising growth. For instance, exports of mangoes, coconuts, and processed coconut products have performed remarkably well, indicating a potential resilience in certain sectors of Vietnam’s agricultural exports. The largest export market remains China, accounting for 46.1% of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports, followed by the United States at 9.1% and South Korea at 6%.

To combat the recent downturn and meet global standards, companies such as Vina T&T and Red Dragon Production are investing in cutting-edge preservation technologies, implements for traceability, and expanding cold storage facilities. Such investments are essential not only for maintaining product quality but also for ensuring that Vietnamese fruits and vegetables meet the stringent criteria set by international markets.

This week, Vietnam celebrated a notable achievement with the shipment of 100 tons of early-ripening lychees from Bac Giang to Paris, where they fetched impressive wholesale prices ranging from $8.60 to $9.40 per kilogram. This milestone illustrates Vietnam’s potential to compete in high-end markets provided that quality control measures and technological advancements remain a priority.

Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien reiterated the importance of sustainable production practices and adherence to sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards in accessing these premium markets. Vietnam’s ongoing free trade agreements are continuously opening up new opportunities; however, there is a pressing need for the agricultural sector to align with international technical requirements to ensure consistent long-term growth.

Sustainability in agricultural production is not merely an ideal but a necessity for future success. With changes in consumer behavior increasingly favoring organic and sustainably sourced products, Vietnamese growers will need to adapt quickly. Investments in environmentally friendly practices and transparency throughout the supply chain will be critical areas of focus for the industry moving forward.

Throughout this evolution, technology will play an indispensable role. From precision agriculture techniques to enhance crop yield to blockchain for product traceability, Vietnamese agricultural producers must embrace innovation at every step. This integration of technology not only improves efficiency but also extends the shelf life of produce, which is crucial when competing in international markets plagued by logistics challenges.

Furthermore, the collaboration between government institutions and private companies is vital in realizing these aspirations. By working together, they can pave the way for a standardized approach to quality assurance that resonates with consumers and partners worldwide. Educational initiatives to train local farmers on the latest technologies and practices can also help elevate the overall quality of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable output.

By putting technology and quality at the forefront of its agricultural agenda, Vietnam aims to not only recover from recent setbacks but also to redefine its standing in the international market. The focus on improving agricultural standards reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving demands of consumers while ensuring that the country’s rich agricultural heritage thrives in the modern economy.

In conclusion, although recent statistics indicate challenges ahead for Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports, the country’s focus on technology and quality provides a pathway towards sustained export growth. With targeted investments and a commitment to adapting to international standards, Vietnam is poised to boost its agricultural sector and establish itself as a formidable player in the global market.

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