Vietnam hosts Asian Organic Conference: Golden opportunity for green agriculture

On September 17, the 8th Organic Asia Congress (OAC) officially opened in Ninh Binh province, attracting about 550 delegates, including international guests from 33 countries and territories. OAC is an annual forum bringing together policymakers, scientists, experts, businesses and organizations developing organic agriculture in the region and the world.

This is the first time Vietnam has hosted an international event on organic agriculture, organized by the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association (VOAA) in collaboration with the Asian Organic Federation (IFOAM-Organics Asia), under the direction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment .

With the theme "Organic for a Better Future", the conference focuses on three main areas: policy, market and organic production practices. Discussion sessions will delve into experiences in building incentive mechanisms, expanding markets, ensuring transparency in supply chains, and disseminating best practices in production from crops, livestock, aquaculture to soil, water and biodiversity conservation.

Dr. Ha Phuc Mich, Chairman of the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association. (Photo: Government Newspaper)

Dr. Ha Phuc Mich, Chairman of the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association, said: "Vietnam has identified the development of organic agriculture as an inevitable trend. However, this is only the initial stage and we still have many issues to learn and exchange with international friends. OAC 2025 will be an important opportunity to connect, improve capacity and promote stronger organic agriculture development." He also emphasized that although organic agriculture in Vietnam has spread widely, it is still in its early stages.

Mr. Mathew John, President of IFOAM-Organics Asia, affirmed: "Consumer awareness of the environmental and health benefits of organic agriculture is increasing, especially in the context of severe climate change." Mr. John hopes that the conference will bring a clearer understanding of the development of organic agriculture in Vietnam. At the same time, this is also an opportunity to find ways to cooperate to bring local products to the Asian and global markets. IFOAM-Organics Asia will take on the role of connecting organic products of its members.

Vice Chairman of Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee Tran Anh Dung shared: "Hosting the 8th Asian Organic Conference is a great honor for Ninh Binh". Mr. Dung emphasized that this is the first international event on organic agriculture held in Vietnam, marking an important step forward in integration. This is also an opportunity for Ninh Binh to promote the image of the ancient capital, with many cultural and natural heritages and the potential for developing green, organic agriculture associated with sustainable tourism .

Delegates take souvenir photos. (Photo: Environmental Economics Newspaper)

Mr. Dung said that climate change is directly threatening food security and public health. Therefore, organic agriculture is not only a trend but also a strategic solution for sustainable development. By the end of 2024, the whole Ninh Binh province will have 26 hectares of precious medicinal plants certified organic, more than 5,000 hectares of rice and 700 hectares of vegetables produced in an organic direction. In addition, 1,689 hectares of clams have achieved ASC international certification, making Ninh Binh a locality with organic seafood products for export.

The conference saw the participation of delegates from China, Sikkim (India), Bhutan, the Philippines and Japan sharing their experiences on successful local organic farming policies and models. These experiences are expected to provide practical suggestions for Vietnam in improving policies, developing markets and responding to climate change.

Source: https://thoidai.com.vn/viet-nam-dang-cai-hoi-nghi-huu-co-chau-a-co-hoi-vang-cho-nong-nghiep-xanh-216383.html