Vietnam - UNIDO: Partnering to develop green agricultural production models

Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien highly appreciated the practical and effective cooperation between the agriculture and environment sectors and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). This success is reflected in various technical assistance projects focused on agricultural product preservation and processing. Some of the key projects include the Global Standards and Quality Program, which encompasses the Vietnam National Project Phases 1 and 2, as well as the joint UNIDO-IFAD project funded by the Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF).

Furthermore, UNIDO has been actively involved in providing technical support for policy consulting, developing a National Action Plan for transforming food systems, and establishing a Food Innovation Center, all of which are supported by the Finnish Trust Fund. The collaboration extends to the transfer of advanced technologies, including pyrolysis and biochar production, as well as post-harvest technologies, and assists in the development of models for value-added innovation and circular economy practices.

Looking ahead, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien called on UNIDO to continue supporting Vietnam in developing a green and circular value chain model for tropical fruits. This model would focus on building pilot projects that cater to export markets, with low emissions, reduced post-harvest losses, and a strong emphasis on fostering sustainable circular economy practices.

"The post-harvest and deep processing sectors in Vietnam have not yet been vigorously promoted. Agricultural exports still mainly consist of raw, unprocessed products, while post-harvest losses remain high, reaching 10-12%. Therefore, I hope that UNIDO will accompany Vietnam in enhancing post-harvest research and development (R&D) capabilities.

Experts from both sides can collaborate to jointly develop research packages on preservation and processing technologies, thereby enhancing the value of agricultural products. At the same time, we aim to enhance the capacity of research institutes under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to develop technologies suited to Vietnam’s climate conditions and specific supply chain characteristics", said the Ministry's leadership.

To realize the commitment of achieving Net Zero by 2050, Vietnam has requested UNIDO to continue transferring and demonstrating advanced post-harvest technologies, as well as collaborate on building a project to assess the impact of these technologies on greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, Vietnam aims to promote models for recycling fruit byproducts, effectively utilize agricultural resources, and develop a circular economy.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is committed to closely collaborating with UNIDO in implementing a plan to transform the food system towards transparency, accountability, and sustainability by 2030.

Ms. Fatou Haidara, Deputy Director-General of UNIDO, emphasized that Vietnam's goals are fully aligned with UNIDO’s strategic direction on green transition, circular economy development, and sustainable growth.

UNIDO is currently implementing several innovation initiatives that promote business transparency to enhance industrial competitiveness. Additionally, the organization supports countries, including Vietnam, in developing industrial policies and strengthening related functions and tasks.

"The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is an important partner of UNIDO", emphasized Deputy Director-General of UNIDO. "We are committed to making every effort to support the action plans related to the national food system in Vietnam, with the goal of upgrading the local economy and promoting sustainable development".

Furthermore, UNIDO is actively developing solutions to create competitive, sustainable value chains that are resilient to climate change. These include both a holistic approach and a systems approach, starting with the development of policies suited to the national context. Within this framework, UNIDO is carrying out training and capacity-building activities for production facilities, enterprises, and related entities.

On the opportunity for cooperation, Ms. Fatou Haidara emphasized the potential for developing green and clean technologies in Vietnam to achieve the goal of reducing poverty, while also driving industrial development in a way that reduces emissions.

"Vietnam's economy can grow stronger through the production and export of agricultural products. Meanwhile, UNIDO, with its extensive experience across various fields and regions, is ready to share knowledge and best practices. Additionally, we can provide advanced technologies and apply artificial intelligence (AI) to future collaborative projects", said Deputy Director-General Fatou Haidara.

Moreover, the Deputy Director-General of UNIDO emphasized that the private sector is a crucial player in promoting sustainable agricultural and environmental development.

P4G Summit (Hanoi, April 15-17, 2025), themed "Sustainable and people-centered green transition,” is the largest multilateral high-level event on green growth hosted by Vietnam in the 2021-2026 period. Vietnam Agriculture and Nature Newspaper (VAN) brings latest news on Vietnam's strong commitments, proactive role and international responsibility at the P4G Summit.