On November 13, 2024, EuroCham’s Food, Agri, and Aquaculture Business Sector Committee (FAABS) held a pivotal meeting with Mr. Laurent Lourdais, Deputy Head of Trade Section at the EU Delegation to Vietnam. The discussion focused on advancing green and sustainable agricultural practices, addressing regulatory challenges, and enhancing Vietnam’s export readiness. The session provided a platform for constructive dialogue and collaborative solutions to drive progress in Vietnam’s agriculture sector.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
1. Promoting Green and Sustainable Agriculture
FAABS stressed the need to reduce nitrogen emissions through innovative livestock and aquaculture practices. By adopting low-protein diets, nitrogen emissions could potentially decrease by 10-15% for every 1% reduction in crude protein, reducing dependency on imported soybean meal and contributing to environmental improvements.
Strengthening pesticide regulations was also a key topic. Recommendations included introducing single-use, pre-printed packaging to combat counterfeit products and encouraging the development of composting facilities as alternatives to chemical fertilisers. The committee highlighted the importance of green financing mechanisms, such as eco-friendly loans, while acknowledging challenges like farmers’ limited access to land-use rights certificates, which hinder sustainable investments.
2. Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Overuse of antibiotics in livestock was identified as a critical concern, posing risks to Vietnam’s export market due to increasing antimicrobial resistance. FAABS advocated for stricter controls on antibiotic use and the promotion of probiotics and natural alternatives. Establishing an integrated AMR surveillance system aligned with international standards was seen as a key step to enhance Vietnam’s global competitiveness. The committee also recommended vaccination programs and compartmentalization to mitigate zoonotic outbreaks and improve export readiness.
3. Aligning with International Standards
FAABS emphasised the importance of aligning Vietnam’s regulations with EU and global standards, particularly in animal feed and aquaculture. Revising technical standards and facilitating the registration of innovative pest and disease control solutions were proposed as ways to enhance competitiveness. Concerns were raised about discrepancies between Vietnam’s antibiotic classifications and WHO guidelines, which could affect international trade.
4. Collaborative Outcomes
This meeting underscored the shared commitment of EuroCham’s FAABS and the EU Delegation to promoting sustainable agriculture and aligning Vietnam’s practices with international benchmarks. The discussions reinforced the importance of partnership in overcoming challenges and unlocking opportunities in Vietnam’s agriculture sector.
