Training human resources is a top priority for the development of organic agriculture

The Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association has proposed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development allow the socialization of training programs on organic agriculture.

On November 19, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development held a meeting with the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association regarding the organization of the 8th Asia Organic Conference in 2025 in Ninh Binh Province. The President of the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association, Mr. Ha Phuc Mich, stated that an agreement has been signed for Vietnam to host the 8th IFOAM Asia Organic Congress in 2025.

At present, organic agriculture in Vietnam is receiving considerable attention from both the Party and the State, and it has emerged as a prominent trend in the country's agricultural production. It is also aligning with global agricultural trends and standards. Vietnam has introduced policies and legal frameworks to support the growth of organic agriculture, and this has been met with positive responses from provinces and cities across the country. Public awareness regarding the importance of organic agriculture and the inevitable shift towards its development is growing rapidly. However, the sector is still in its early stages, and many challenges remain. These include unresolved issues, areas for improvement, and the need for further exchange of knowledge, experiences and best practices with international counterparts.

Mr. Ha Phuc Mich mentioned that the Asia Organic Conference is a significant event that gathers scientists, businesses, and local government leaders from around 33 countries. This conference provides a valuable opportunity for Ninh Bình, as well as Vietnam as a whole, to learn from and gain insights into organic agricultural development from both regional and international experts. It will also help to promote the province's people, tourism, and green, organic agricultural production, while highlighting the broader agricultural landscape of Vietnam.

"Through the 8th Asia Organic Conference, Vietnam’s high-quality organic agricultural products and OCOP (One Commune One Product) products will be presented to a wider global audience. This event serves as an ideal platform to showcase Vietnam's medicinal products on the international stage, fostering the growth of the domestic herbal medicine industry and expanding its reach worldwide

At the same time, this event will not only help Ninh Bình affirm its achievements in economic, cultural, and social development but also contribute to enhancing the image of Vietnam as a whole, demonstrating the country's integration into the international community and its commitment to sustainable development", said Mr. Ha Quang Mich.

During the meeting, the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association also presented further suggestions and insights regarding the development of organic agriculture in the country. Specifically, in relation to Decision No. 885/QD-TTG dated June 23, 2020, which outlines the Development Plan for Organic Agriculture from 2020 to 2030, Mr. Ha Phuc Mich recommended that detailed assessments be made during the first phase (2020-2025). This includes gathering specific data on land area, key indicators, and organic agricultural product production by each province. These assessments will provide a clearer understanding of the progress made and help establish a more accurate foundation for determining the necessary adjustments and actions. This, in turn, will ensure that the set goals for the development of organic agriculture by 2030 are successfully achieved.

Mr. Ha Quang Mich suggested that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development consider allowing the socialization of training programs related to organic agriculture.

After listening to the shares and proposals presented by the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien emphasized: “At present, state management must adopt an open and flexible mindset. The local human resources available for the development of organic agriculture are still limited, making the training of skilled personnel a top priority. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development agrees with the proposal and supports the idea of allowing the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association to socialize and open up the training programs for organic agriculture.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will assist the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association in connecting and introducing businesses to engage in these training programs. This collaboration will help expand the network of partnerships, improving the quality and effectiveness of training, and ultimately supporting the growth of organic agriculture in Vietnam.

Additionally, the Ministry will also take the lead and collaborate with the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association in collecting and providing comprehensive data on organic agriculture in Vietnam.