Viet Nam, Canada promote smart agriculture and risk-based food safety management

Building a sustainable agricultural research ecosystem

At the Ottawa Research and Development Centre (ODRC), Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam conducted a field visit to experimental farms and was briefed on the scientific strategy of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. ODRC Director Aman Deep affirmed the centre’s readiness to share experience in support of Viet Nam’s sustainable agricultural adaptation.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam highlighted the existing cooperation foundation between Viet Nam and Canada through the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), particularly in areas such as veterinary science, aquaculture, and vaccines. However, he noted that there remains significant potential for further collaboration, especially in strengthening direct linkages between research institutes of the two countries.

"In the context of increasingly complex climate change impacting soil quality, water resources, and agricultural ecosystems globally, strengthening research cooperation with leading centers like Ottawa is essential. We hope that Vietnamese institutes and universities can establish joint research programs that go into depth and deliver high practical value," the Deputy Minister shared.

Based on Viet Nam’s developmental reality, the Deputy Minister proposed four key research cooperation orientations. Among them, sustainable and circular agriculture serves as the pillar, featuring contents such as: developing crop and livestock varieties with high resilience to diseases and climate change; applying advanced technologies in aquaculture; and promoting circular economy models in processing and agricultural value chains. Notably, Viet Nam expressed particular interest in seed research for the '1 Million Hectares of High-Quality Rice' project, aiming to enhance the added value of the rice industry.

Both sides agreed to accelerate the application of green technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and sensor systems in land management, water resources, and agricultural production. Regarding climate change, the Vietnamese side proposed cooperation in building digital models for drought and saltwater intrusion forecasting; researching drought-tolerant crops and aquatic species adapted to sea-level rise; and developing emission reduction solutions and biotechnology.

On the same day, the delegation held a bilateral meeting with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, chaired by Ms. Chris Moran, Assistant Deputy Minister for International Affairs. The two sides focused on exchanging views on agricultural trade and market barriers, while discussing solutions to strengthen cooperation in sustainable food systems.

Carbon market cooperation and human resource training

Following these activities, on March 26, the delegation worked with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to promote in-depth cooperation in food safety testing and certification.

Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam proposed building a chain-based food safety control model, from production to consumption and export, as well as establishing a regular information-sharing mechanism between the regulatory authorities of both countries. Regarding the possibility of a bilateral agreement, the Vietnamese side expressed the desire for the recognition of a competent authority for inspecting and issuing export certificates for seafood to Canada. According to the Deputy Minister, this would not only simplify administrative procedures but also create more favorable conditions for businesses during the export process.

Both sides agreed to maintain periodic technical meetings to promptly update new regulations and standards on food safety, traceability, and labeling.

Within the framework of working with Global Affairs Canada (GAC), Viet Nam proposed the implementation of the project "Transforming Agri-food Systems and Trade." The project also focuses on value chain development in key sectors such as fisheries, livestock, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Simultaneously, it aims to support smallholder farmers in improving incomes and adapting to climate change through smart agriculture models.

"We expect the project to contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of food safety and quarantine measures, strengthening the competitiveness of Vietnamese agricultural products, and supporting the transformation of food systems toward sustainability and inclusivity," Deputy Minister Nam emphasized.

Additionally, the two sides exchanged views on technical cooperation in carbon market development, the establishment of emission quota exchange systems, and the enhancement of human resource training, particularly for cooperatives and small businesses.

This series of activities in Canada is expected to create an important foundation for the two countries to expand comprehensive cooperation in agriculture, ranging from scientific research and innovation to trade and sustainable development in the context of global climate change.