Deputy Minister Hoang Trung expressed Vietnam’s desire to further strengthen agricultural and environmental cooperation with Ireland

Expanding agricultural trade between Vietnam and Ireland

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Hoang Trung emphasized the need to strengthen agricultural trade between the two countries. Although Vietnam and Ireland share strong political and economic ties, the trade volume of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products remains limited compared to its potential. To address this, both sides agreed to explore ways to facilitate fruit exports from each country, leveraging their respective strengths in crop production.

Vietnam and Ireland have already established a framework for agricultural cooperation. In April 2023, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural and rural development, as well as an MoU on food system transformation. The ongoing Vietnam-Ireland Food and Agriculture Partnership (IVAP) 2023-2027 focuses on sustainable food system transformation and responsible agricultural practices. Deputy Minister Hoàng Trung noted that Vietnam is implementing monitoring frameworks and research programs under these agreements, aligned with the country’s Action Plan for Sustainable, Transparent, and Accountable Food System Transformation.

Vietnam is particularly interested in technical support from Ireland in food system transition and food safety management, including traceability mechanisms. Another key concern is the EU’s IUU yellow card warning on Vietnam’s seafood exports, which remains a significant barrier to trade with Ireland and other EU nations. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is actively working to address this issue, and Vietnam has requested Ireland’s support in advocating for the removal of the yellow card.

Ireland’s commitment to rural development in Vietnam

Minister Noel Grealish highlighted Ireland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam across various sectors, including agriculture, trade, education, and sustainable development. He noted that Ireland has undergone a similar transformation from an agriculture-based economy to an open, modern economy, and is eager to share its expertise. The Irish government remains committed to supporting poverty reduction, climate resilience in ethnic minority areas, demining activities, and rural development in Vietnam.

Vietnam and Ireland have already established a framework for agricultural cooperation

Through the IVAP program, Ireland is fostering collaboration with both government and private sector stakeholders in Vietnam. The program supports initiatives such as sustainable food system transformation, livestock safety, food innovation, value-added agricultural products, and cooperative development. As part of this effort, the Irish Embassy and Ireland’s Sustainable Food Systems Institute (SFSI) have awarded three fully funded scholarships for Vietnamese students to pursue master’s degrees in climate change, agriculture, and food security.

Future cooperation and capacity building

Deputy Minister Hoang Trung expressed Vietnam’s desire to further strengthen agricultural and environmental cooperation with Ireland. Beyond trade, he highlighted the importance of poverty alleviation, rural modernization, climate adaptation, and vocational training for farmers. He emphasized that enhancing farmers’ knowledge and skills will enable them to produce higher-value agricultural products directly on their farms. A well-trained agricultural workforce is expected to contribute significantly to Vietnam’s future agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Additionally, supporting agricultural cooperatives is seen as a key strategy for modernization. Many cooperatives are adopting advanced technologies to transition into agricultural enterprises, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

By deepening bilateral cooperation and fostering innovation in agriculture, Vietnam and Ireland are paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector in both countries.

PV