Mekong Detla contributes 31% to Vietnam's agriculture

The Mekong Delta is a significant exporter of fruits, rice, and seafood, with each commodity generating annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, the Voice of Vietnam (VOV) cited the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s statistics as reporting.

According to the report, Vietnam’s rice exports are expected to exceed 8 million tons in 2024, with the Mekong Delta accounting for approximately 7.6 million tons, or 95% of the total.

The region plays a crucial role in Vietnam's agricultural sector, contributing around 31% of the country's total GDP. It produces nearly 50% of the country's rice, 95% of its rice exports, 65% of its aquaculture and wild-caught seafood, 60% of its fish exports, and nearly 70% of its various fruits.

Nine of Vietnam's top aquaculture and seafood producing localities are located in the Mekong Delta. Despite its strengths and potential, the region's economy is considered underdeveloped, facing challenges from climate change, water resource depletion, and saltwater intrusion.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade's Deputy Director of Import-Export Department Tran Quoc Toan highlighted the need for the region to diversify its exports beyond price-based competition. While some products have undergone deep processing, they often fail to meet EU market standards.

To address these challenges and promote sustainable development, the ministry recommends strengthening regional linkages in trade promotion and import-export. By pooling the resources of local businesses and communities, the Mekong Delta can optimize its economic potential.