The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) held a routine press conference on September 29, during which the growth index, export value, and several "hot" agricultural issues were discussed. The conference was convened by Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien.

During his speech at the conference, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien revealed that the estimated growth rate of the agriculture industry after nine months is 3.66 percent, an impressive figure that demonstrates the efforts of the entire industry despite challenges and difficulties. In addition, the Deputy Minister emphasized the keen interest and participation of the Government and Prime Minister in agricultural activities.

Regarding export value, after three quarters of the year, agricultural exports reached nearly 38.5 billion USD, an increase of 22% year-over-year, with several commodities, including vegetables, rice, and cashews, performing exceptionally well in September. In detail, in this category of agricultural products, vegetable export cast the greatest contribution, reaching 4.2 billion USD, up 718%; rice export reached 3.66 billion USD, up 40.4%.

During the first nine months of 2023, the export value of agricultural products to Asian markets will reach 18,71 billion USD, a 4.9% increase; to the United States, 8.73 billion USD, a 22.5% decrease; to Europe, 4.17 billion USD, an 11.2% decrease; and to Africa, 809 million USD, an 18.9% increase. China, the United States, and Japan remained the three largest export markets, with China accounting for 22.1%, an increase of 13.8%; the United States accounting for 20.7%, a decrease of 22.6%; and Japan accounting for 7.6%, a decrease of 7.7%.

In this context, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien stated, "Recently, we have acknowledged the tremendous efforts of the entire industry, in which the leaders of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development have also contributed significantly to promoting trade and expanding markets.

"The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will focus on key solutions to reach the finish line in terms of both growth rate and export value," confirmed Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien.

Mr. Nguyen Van Viet, Director of the Department of Planning (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development), added that if the current growth rate is maintained, agricultural growth could reach 3.4% by the end of the year, and export value reached approximately 54 billion USD in September.

In response to reporters' questions about the possibility of exporting winter vegetables, Mr. Nguyen Nhu Cuong, Director of the Department of Crop Production (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development), stated that the winter crop is a very special vegetable crop in Vietnam with high economic value due to its exclusive focus on commodity production. In addition to meeting domestic demand, the winter crop also serves the purpose of exporting to a number of markets, such as China.

 "This year, China has experienced numerous adverse weather conditions for vegetable production, so the Department of Crop Production has developed an appropriate production plan for winter vegetable products in anticipation of this opportunity. Mr. Nguyen Nhu Cuong added that the winter vegetable area is maintained at 380,000 hectares with a 1:1 ratio of warm and chilly vegetables to ensure both domestic consumption and export.

The head of the Department of Crop Production stated that, in addition to businesses, specialized agencies will actively coordinate with local governments to eliminate any obstacles to the export of winter vegetables to the Chinese market.

Regarding this issue, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien added that all conditions and opportunities exist, so it is necessary to seize the opportunity with vigor, deploy the appropriate production, and avoid endangering people.

Mr. Tran Dinh Luan, Director of the Department of Fisheries (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development), responded to the press about the IUU issue and the inspection trip of the European Commission - EC in October by stating that recently, inspection work, supervision, and legal regulations have been completed. This is the determining factor as to whether or not the IUU yellow card can be lifted.

Mr. Tran Dinh Luan elaborated on this issue by stating that the cause of this phenomenon is the disparity between localities, with some areas performing well and others being hesitant and fearful of collision. Moreover, there are deficiencies in logbook recording and ship administration, so it is necessary to continue regulating and promoting logbook recording and itinerary monitoring for fishing vessels. In addition, communities must strengthen guidance, communication, and inspection and punishment procedures.