Green transformation in agricultural and food production promotes exports to the EU

On the morning of November 13, within the framework of the Vietnam International Food Industry Exhibition (Vietnam Foodexpo 2024) taking place in the city. Ho Chi Minh City, the Ministry of Industry and Trade coordinated with the European Commission to organize a workshop with the theme “Green transformation in agricultural and food production to promote exports to the European Union”.

The workshop organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in collaboration with the European Commission provides multi-dimensional perspectives from domestic and international experts on market prospects and the ability to participate deeply in the supply chain with EU partners. , trade defense, businesses adapt to new regulations and policies and propose strategies to promote green transformation in the agricultural industry, in line with green economic trends, circular economy…

With the presence of representatives of the European Business Association in Vietnam (EuroCham), the European Union Delegation to Vietnam, representatives of the Consulate General of EU member countries in Vietnam, localities, and experts Domestically, internationally, and especially with the large participation of the business community, the conference opens a comprehensive, multi-dimensional interactive channel to keep up with market trends and fluctuations, and support businesses. Vietnam captures information and quickly adapts to maintain Maintain and develop green production activities.

This year’s program is especially aimed at supporting Vietnamese businesses to overcome challenges and adapt to green regulations and policies, seizing opportunities for trade and investment cooperation in potential fields. such as green economy, digital economy, circular economy and energy transition in the EU market.

Speaking at the Conference, Mr. Le Hoang Tai – Deputy Director of the Department of Trade Promotion affirmed that the EU is one of Vietnam’s leading trade and investment partners, making an important contribution to the economic development process. socio-economic, integration and energy transition of Vietnam. Mr. Le Hoang Tai also emphasized the role of the EVFTA and EVIPA Agreements, helping to create favorable conditions for Vietnam in promoting trade cooperation, attracting investment and technology transfer from the EU.

Deputy Director of the Department of Trade Promotion also pointed out that Vietnam is actively implementing commitments at COP26, aiming for Net zero by 2050 through the National Strategy on Green Growth. The Ministry of Industry and Trade will continue to support Vietnamese businesses in applying ESG standards, promoting trade, investing in green technology, and promoting sustainable production models, thereby improving competitiveness. compete and participate deeply in the global value chain.

At the event, Mr. Jean-Jacques Bouflet – Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham), emphasized the importance of the European Green Deal (EGD) in shaping sustainable policies, At the same time, it pointed out new challenges that Vietnamese export businesses face, especially from the Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and Anti-Deforestation Regulations (EUDR).

Mr. Jean-Jacques Bouflet affirmed that compliance with these new standards is not only a mandatory requirement but also brings great opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to participate more deeply in the global supply chain. Besides, he highly appreciated the cooperation between the EU and Vietnam in areas such as renewable energy, circular economy and technology transfer, thereby promoting the goal of sustainable development and carbon neutrality. of both sides.

Associate Professor. Dr. Nguyen Dinh Tho – Director of the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Exchanging presentations at the conference, Associate Professor. Dr. Nguyen Dinh Tho – Director of the Institute of Strategy, Policy on Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment pointed out the challenges that Vietnamese businesses face from ESG barriers imposed by the EU, including Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and Anti-Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). He also mentioned the global context with three main crises: Climate change, environmental pollution and biodiversity loss. In this context, Vietnam needs to strongly transition to a green economy, towards a low-emission, resource-efficient and sustainable economy.

He also highlighted the role of the Vietnamese Government in developing policies and supporting businesses through strategies such as the National Green Growth Strategy and international cooperation programs, to improve capacity. compete, attract investment and meet strict EU standards.

Speaking at the conference, Mr. Laurent Lourdais – representative of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Vietnam shared about the strict standards that the EU applies to imported agricultural and food products, especially focusing on to regulations such as CBAM and EUDR.

Mr. Laurent Lourdais emphasized that, to maintain a presence in the EU market, Vietnamese businesses need to constantly innovate production, ensuring environmental and social criteria. In addition, he recommended that businesses build sustainable supply chains and enhance traceability to meet increasing expectations from European consumers.

Mr. Laurent Lourdais – representative of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Vietnam shared about the strict standards that the EU applies to imported agricultural products and food.

As a foreign enterprise, Mr. Ömer Oktay – representative of Voicevale Import Company (UK), highly appreciates the potential for cooperation between the EU and Vietnam in the field of production and import and export of products. green standards. With growing demand from the EU market for sustainable products, Vietnam has many advantages to exploit, from rich raw material resources to a strong commitment to green development. He emphasized that ensuring high environmental and social standards will not only help Vietnamese businesses gain deeper access to the EU’s supply chain in general and the UK in particular, but also increase value. brand and competitiveness in the international market.

From the perspective of Vietnamese businesses, at the conference both Vinasoy and Betrimex corporations affirmed their strong commitment to sustainable development through the application of high technology and resource optimization. Vinasoy representatives emphasized the investment in a residue-free production process (Okara), which helps optimize the use of soybeans and minimize waste in plant milk production, while meeting green standards.

Meanwhile, Betrimex focuses on utilizing the full value of coconuts, minimizing waste to the maximum extent, and implementing carbon offset and renewable energy projects. The company also promotes support for farmers through sustainable and digital farming models, to increase income and improve livelihoods for rural communities. These efforts not only contribute to minimizing environmental impacts but also enhance export value, affirming the position of Vietnamese products in the international market.

In particular, at the conference, the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) took place between the Center for Information Technology Application and Digital Transformation in Trade Promotion (INTEC) under the Department of Trade Promotion, Industry and Trade. Tridge Company (Korea) and Vietnam Omnichannel Trade Promotion Joint Stock Company (TOPVN), to promote the export of Vietnamese agricultural and food products through modern digital platforms. The three parties commit to cooperate in building and developing the Vietnamese agricultural and food database system, helping businesses effectively manage and exploit information, thereby improving competitiveness in the international market. international. In the coming time, the parties will strengthen coordination and expand access to the global market through the establishment of a Vietnam Pavilion on Tridge.com, contributing to increasing the recognition and value of Vietnamese products. Nam on international e-commerce platforms.

Signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Center for Information Technology Application and Digital Transformation in Trade Promotion (INTEC) under the Department of Trade Promotion, Tridge Company (Korea) and the Company Vietnam Multi-Channel Trade Promotion Joint Stock Company (TOPVN).

The cooperation program also includes in-depth training activities, raising awareness and skills for businesses on import-export promotion, and organizing events to promote and connect businesses with partners. international cooperation. Speaking at the signing ceremony, representatives of the three parties emphasized that this cooperation not only helps Vietnamese businesses gain deeper access to the international market but also makes an important contribution to building a digital economy. and sustainable for Vietnam’s agriculture and food industry.

Discussing at the discussion session, experts analyzed and answered questions from businesses about major challenges in the volatile global economic context, while clarifying the trend of applying trade standards. Green and sustainable trade is increasingly demanding. Regulations such as the Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the Anti-Deforestation Regulations (EUDR), and the Supply Chain Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) are seen as factors that will strongly influence trade activities. trade and investment between Vietnam and the EU in the coming time.

Besides, experts also emphasized that this challenge is also an opportunity for Vietnamese businesses. Complying with sustainable standards not only helps businesses continue to be present in the international market but also creates conditions to more effectively exploit existing advantages, enhance added value and brand reputation. , thereby promoting sustainable development and long-term competitiveness.

Through valuable exchanges of experts, consulting organizations and lively discussions of delegates, the conference has promoted its role as a channel for policy dialogue and updated practical market information. , effectively between the management agencies of both sides and the business community, especially helping Vietnamese businesses better prepare to meet green, sustainable trade standards and exploit opportunities from international markets. .

Workshop materials are available HERE

According to Cong Thuong.vn