Hanoi – Implementing sustainable development for 1 million hectares of low-emission high-quality rice production in the Mekong Delta by 2030 relies heavily on investment and public-private partnerships (PPP), insiders emphasized.

The project aims to enhance the rice production chain’s value, increase farmer incomes, and contribute to sustainable development in the face of worsening climate change. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Tran Thanh Nam, highlighted that the project would focus on reducing production costs and expanding carbon-certified rice production.

According to Vietnam News Agency, Deputy Director of the Crop Production Department at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), mobilizing components through PPP programmes is crucial. The establishment of the PPP task force on rice is intended to strengthen linkages in sustainable rice production and harness agricultural technology. Le Quoc Thanh, Director of the National Agricultural Extension Centre, views the project as an opportunity to re-position Vietnam’s rice sector and advocates for the involvement of private entities, businesses, and producers.

Misha Rabat from Grow Asia expressed the organization’s eagerness to connect public and private partners and mobilize resources for food system innovation. Vietnamese businesses have shown interest in the project, including the Loc Troi Group, which has implemented technology in production activities. Vietnam’s rice sector plays a pivotal role in food security and poverty reduction, exporting to over 150 countries and accounting for more than 15% of global rice exports.