Vietnam and Netherlands Deepen Agricultural Ties, Focus on Mekong Delta Sustainability

On March 19, 2023, Vietnam's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan, held bilateral talks in Hanoi with a Dutch delegation led by Minister of Natural Policy and Nitrogen, Christianne van der Wal. The meeting was part of a broader visit by 70 Dutch companies and organizations, comprising 140 entrepreneurs, to Vietnam from March 18 to 21, 2023.

Minister Hoan highlighted the strong existing cooperation between Vietnam and the Netherlands in various sectors, particularly agriculture. He acknowledged the Netherlands' effective projects in Vietnam, such as clean water initiatives in the Mekong Delta and strategic advisory support for the region, which faces significant climate challenges as a key rice-producing hub.

Expressing a desire to elevate the agricultural partnership, Minister Hoan outlined plans to mobilize resources from investors and development partners to implement the Sustainable Agricultural Transformation Plan in the Mekong Delta, the Central Highlands, and northern Vietnam.

He proposed Dutch support in establishing cold storage systems and logistics infrastructure in the Mekong Delta, particularly in Can Tho, to enhance agricultural supply chains and position the region as a sustainable food supply center for the Netherlands and the European Union.

Minister Hoan also sought Dutch assistance in establishing a Southeast Asian Innovative Food Center and supporting 100 million low-emission farmers. He suggested cooperation on organizing the 2023 International Conference on Food Systems in Vietnam to address food security amidst global economic disruptions. Additionally, he highlighted the need for Dutch technical support, investment, ODA, and eco-friendly farming models to enhance Vietnamese agricultural competitiveness, efficiency, and emissions reduction in line with commitments made at COP26.

Minister van der Wal expressed the Netherlands' desire to strengthen collaboration with Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. She noted the shared geographical characteristics and challenges faced by both countries, including their locations in river basins, vulnerability to climate change, and status as global agricultural exporters.

Recognizing Vietnam's progress in food production, particularly in the Mekong Delta, she emphasized the potential for cooperation to help Vietnamese agricultural products meet the high standards of demanding markets like the EU. "The Netherlands is ready to assist Vietnam in achieving its strategic goals and becoming a significant agricultural exporter in the region and the world," she affirmed.

Minister van der Wal expressed a desire for expanded cooperation in areas including maintaining the Mekong Delta's position as a high-quality rice producer, developing logistics, and promoting sustainable agriculture that prioritizes ecological preservation and biodiversity.

The Dutch delegation, which includes representatives from 70 companies and organizations, is led by Minister van der Wal, Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management Mark Harbers, and President of the Dutch Industry and Employers Association Ingrid Thijssen. The delegation's focus areas include water technology and management, sustainable agriculture, and green and smart logistics.

Business meetings will take place in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with visits to Hai Phong and Lam Dong to further explore collaboration opportunities.