Committing to accelerate two key agricultural projects

The sustainable fisheries development project has been jointly implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and the World Bank (WB) since 2019. Deputy Minister of MARD Phung Duc Tien emphasized the importance of this project and considered that it can free Vietnam from the IUU yellow card.

Besides the project, MARD also cooperated with WB to enhance the infrastructure and facilities of the food safety management system. The project of agri-food safety was among issues that paid huge attention at the 14th session of the 12th Party Central Committee.

"Food safety plays a very important role in socio-economic development. In the process of industrialization and modernization of the country, safe food helps people ensure their health and respond to many requirements of the new era. We will move towards tracing the origin of all foods," Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien said during a working session with the World Bank on the evening of July 1.

The project launched in April with the scope covering six provinces and cities of Hanoi, Thanh Hoa, Ho Chi Minh City, An Giang, Tien Giang, and Dong Thap between 2022 and 2027, aims to minimize the risks of unsafe foods in the value chain.

Head of Agricultural Project Management Board Le Van Hien said that the agricultural industry is working drastically to prepare a pre-feasibility report for a sustainable aquaculture development project. With the component of MARD, the consulting unit has been fixed. It is expected that the Ministry will submit the investment policy to the Government for approval before September 30.

As it goes slower than expected, MARD rushingly proposed series of solutions for the project. Next week, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien will chair the meeting with relevant cities and provinces to discuss the issue, remove difficulties, and shorten procedures, especially bidding.

With the project of safe agricultural food, Hien said that MARD has completed its component within 30 days. On June 14, the Ministry signed a decision to send it to the Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Ministry of Finance.

On behalf of WB, Ahmed Eiweida, Head of the Department of Sustainable Development in Vietnam, World Bank Global Leader for Cultural Heritage & Sustainable, acknowledged the determination of the Ministry in the implementation of two projects.

Eiweida also asked the MARD to illustrate the commitment in writing or email, clearly stating the completed steps, and upcoming plans.

Nguyen Thu Lan, the Senior Expert on Environmental Economics of the World Bank, agreed with the opinion of the Ministry. She added that investing in agriculture is an urgent matter, but needs a long-term strategy and great determination from the stakeholders.

Noting the opinion of the World Bank, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien agreed to send documents to relevant ministries, departments and agencies.