Forum tackles issues facing next-generation agriculture

• Mining, agriculture slow economic growth
• Challenges and opportunities face the Vietnamese agriculture
• Harnessing the ‘national brand’ image of agriculture

At a press conference on October 19 in Ho Chi Minh City kicking off the forum, Truong Quang Hoai Nam, vice chair of the Can Tho People’s Committee, one of the sponsors, said recommendations from the stakeholders are vital to the future of agriculture. 

Feedback obtained at events like these and recommendations from the stakeholders, he said, help government leaders as she or he grapple with challenges and opportunities facing a new generation transitioning into the Vietnam agricultural economy.

The upcoming forum entitled ‘Mekong Connect-CEO Forum 2016’ will focus on identifying region-specific needs of new and beginner farmers and areas in which new policies can best support access to land and capital.

If the government is collectively to help agriculture in the region flourish, it needs to increase the frequency of collaborations like the Mekong Connect event among government, industry members and farmers, noted Mr Nam.

Discussions will touch heavily on farm profitability and how it influences the land tenure of small farms. There will also be in depth discussions addressing issues related to making sure agencies that exist to help farmers at any stage in their career are always communicating with other relevant agencies on what they are doing.

In turn, Vu Kim Hanh, president of the Vietnam High Quality Product Association, another sponsor, noted events like the upcoming forum help government agencies articulate the most urgent needs in agriculture, and develop long-range solutions that will keep the industry thriving.