Vietnam Agriculture and Nature News and CropLife bolster media cooperation

On the morning of January 13, the Vietnam Agriculture and Nature News (VAN) and CropLife Vietnam signed an MoU to formalize a long-term cooperation framework. The ceremony was witnessed by leaders from various specialized units under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

The agreement establishes a long-term collaboration aimed at ensuring that plant science, specifically regarding plant protection products, seeds, and biotechnology, is communicated accurately, remains balanced, and is rooted in scientific evidence.

A strategic shift toward systematic cooperation

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Ngoc Thach, Editor-in-Chief of VAN News, noted that while the publication has worked closely with CropLife members through various forums and workshops for years, this MoU marks a significant milestone. He explained that the transition from ad hoc projects to a systematic, long-term strategy creates a "new space" for high-impact programs aligned with the industry’s broader development goals.

Dang Van Bao, Chairman of CropLife Viet Nam, described the signing as a landmark meeting following years of effective coordination. He emphasized that the agreement is not merely a continuation of past efforts but a strategic shift to elevate agricultural science communication. Mr. Bao noted that, amid population growth and shrinking arable land, plant protection and biotechnology, as products of rigorous scientific research, must be properly understood so society can make informed choices to improve productivity.

Mr. Bao highlighted the organic, inseparable connection among CropLife, state regulatory agencies, and the press as the primary vehicle for delivering scientific results to the public. He stressed that the 2026–2030 MoU is a commitment to action, requiring specific content, localized goals, and a clear roadmap. CropLife is committed to a transparent and responsible partnership, mobilizing both domestic and international experts to bring scientific solutions into local trials and practical applications for the benefit of farmers.

From a regulatory perspective, Dr. Nguyen Van Long, Director of the Department of Science and Technology, recognized the partnership as a model for implementing national resolutions on science, technology, and international integration. He revealed that the Ministry is developing a comprehensive communication plan for agricultural science and technology, which includes a planned national forum, and called for active participation from private enterprises such as CropLife.

Long-term vision for 2026-2030

Nguyen Quoc Manh, Deputy Director of the Plant Production and Protection Department, noted that the signing will enable the plant protection and cultivation sectors to directly benefit from enhanced media coverage. He urged both parties to focus on greener, cleaner, and lower-emission production goals, aligning with national strategies through 2035. Furthermore, Mr. Manh suggested increasing communication efforts regarding the research and revision of the Law on Plant Protection during the 2026–2027 period, particularly concerning gene-editing technologies.

Phan Viet Nga, Deputy Director of the Nature Conservation and Biodiversity Department, also emphasized the media's role in shaping public perception of environmental conservation. She proposed integrating ecosystem and natural resource protection into the partnership's agenda to promote sustainable development.

Tran Cao, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the VAN News, recalled the successful forums on biotechnology and seeds held during 2024 - 2025. Moving forward, the newspaper aims to establish these activities as sustainable, annual fixtures.

Under the terms of the MoU, the two organizations will coordinate to organize annual scientific seminars and forums, develop specialized thematic series and bilingual reports, and support communication for low-emission agriculture projects led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. This long-term cooperation is designed to ensure that agricultural science reaches consumers and the public in a responsible and authentic manner.