Vietnam aims to reduce deforestation and land degradation by promoting sustainable agriculture. As the country's economy heavily depends on agroforestry exports, experts warn that failure to adapt to the growing demand for eco-friendly products could result in a loss of market share.
The fourth Global Conference of the Planet Network's Sustainable Food Systems Programme in Hanoi saw discussions on Vietnam's agricultural development.
Tran Quang Bao, the deputy director of the Vietnam Administration of Forestry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the need for Vietnam to prioritize improving the quality and value of farming products as well as the livelihoods of farmers instead of expanding land area for agriculture development.
Vietnam's key markets, including the European Union, have tightened import restrictions on products associated with deforestation. As per the Xinhua news agency, companies are required to produce a due diligence statement demonstrating that their supply chains are not contributing to forest destruction before selling goods into the bloc.
Rui Ludovino, the first counsellor for Climate Action, Environment, Employment, and Social Policies at the European Union Delegation in Vietnam, highlights that commodities such as coffee, rubber, and wood will be significantly affected by upcoming regulations.
These rules are set to take effect in early 2025, with a six-month grace period for small and medium-sized enterprises. Ludovino notes that Vietnam, despite effective forest preservation measures, still needs to establish robust supply chains to increase its market share for agricultural products in the European Union.
In an effort to reduce carbon emissions in six northern-central regions between 2020 and 2025, Vietnam has pledged to invest up to $51.5 million with the World Bank. Although Vietnam is not highly susceptible to deforestation, this investment is necessary for the country to maintain its commitment to sustainability and combat climate change.
It has also started a 5-million-euro programme to safeguard 25,000 hectares of natural forest and cut carbon emissions by 3 million tonnes in central highland provinces.
