Digital transformation is a key responsibility for the agricultural sector

In 2024, the Center for Digital Transformation and Agricultural Statistics achieved several milestones in the digital transformation of the agricultural sector, including: compiling and providing statistical data to support the timely direction and management of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD); actively urging units to implement the sectoral statistical reporting regime for data collection; enhancing the dissemination of statistical information; effectively implementing the coordination mechanism with the General Statistics Office; promoting statistical surveys and regularly monitoring and updating domestic agricultural product prices and market trends.

In 2025, the Center will continue to improve digital transformation and digital government indicators for the Ministry based on key pillars, including online public services, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, specialized databases, digital data, and IT human resources. These efforts aim to improve the Ministry's ranking in the 2025 Digital Transformation Index (DTI). At the same time, the Center will effectively and continuously implement information security measures following the "four-layer" model within the Ministry.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister Vo Van Hung stated: "The agricultural sector, under the leadership of the Ministry, has been built to withstand the new challenges of our era. Among these, digital transformation is the key and the means to achieve the sector's objectives this year and in the years to come. For the nation's development, digital transformation in the digital era is not only an urgent task but also a strategic national priority".

Furthermore, the achievements in 2024 are a testament to the Center's persistent efforts over the years. The figures and accomplishments presented not only reflect the sector's pride but also affirm the critical contributions of the Center for Digital Transformation.

The Deputy Minister urged individuals to renew themselves, reflecting on their mindset and working methods. In digital transformation, creative ideas will serve as the foundation for producing new and impactful outcomes. Previously, the focus was often on results; now, there is a need to shift the approach to align with new demands.

It is essential to synchronize infrastructure, develop and manage data on planting areas, production volumes, OCOP products, and related indicators for craft village products. This will help solidify a robust data foundation for the sector.

Mr. Nguyen Quoc Toan, Director of the Center for Digital Transformation and Agricultural Statistics, shared that the number of 24,500 cooperatives and high-tech agricultural farms is increasing, and strengthening investment in and development of digital infrastructure are key resources for implementing digital transformation.

The Center for Digital Transformation will advise on organizing a national conference on digital transformation in agriculture, focusing on effectively implementing solutions for digital government. Special emphasis will be placed on improving operational quality, advancing the application of digital technology, integrating urban and industrial development, and addressing urgent issues in the sector. Efforts will continue to innovate statistical methods, improve existing systems to collect local information more rapidly and accurately, and refine institutional regulations.

In addition, the Center will support digital transformation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), cooperatives, and farmers, helping them adapt to the digitalization trend. Beyond improving the current state, the Center aims to foster innovation within cooperatives, particularly through initiatives to establish digital agricultural cooperatives led by young entrepreneurs.

Mr. Nguyen Kim Phuc, Deputy Director of the Center, emphasized that international integration requires products to maintain transparency across all stages, from seed selection and cultivation to logistics and full process control. He called for collaboration to establish mechanisms, particularly with support from digital technology companies. Managing the entire value chain must ensure transparency and openness.

Mr. Phuc highlighted the diversity of agriculture in terms of forms, sectors, and extensive management scope. Digital transformation steps must include utilizing graphical and statistical data, building national database projects, leveraging administrative data, registering reports, and consolidating data in areas such as crop production, livestock farming, and organic production.

In his concluding speech, Deputy Minister Vo Van Hung underscored the importance of the Center for Digital Transformation in the new era, where agriculture and rural development face critical national missions. The Deputy Minister urged the Center to concretize each work plan, viewing every achievement as a stepping stone for larger initiatives. He emphasized the need for a deep understanding of the Center’s role in fulfilling the sector’s objectives, leveraging its resources and advantages to elevate agriculture to new heights.

At the conference, Deputy Minister Vo Van Hung presented the Ministry-level Emulation Fighter title to staff members who made outstanding contributions and achievements in the work of the Center for Digital Transformation and Agricultural Statistics.