Sci-tech application key to developing smart agriculture

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The event was jointly held by the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Education and Training as part of the Vietnam Innovation Network 2018.

A hi-tech model growing tomatoes (Photo: VNA)

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Quoc Doanh said agriculture is one of the most important economic sectors of Vietnam, making up to over 15% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2017, up nearly 3% against 2016, with many high value export items.

The agricultural sector is currently encountering a number of challenges and difficulties such as climate change and small-scale production, he added.

The workshop helped connect experts, research agencies, education facilities, and enterprises to conduct joint research projects and promote the application of science and technology in developing smart agriculture, he noted.

The workshop introduced smart agricultural development models from around the world which could be applied in Vietnam, such as building a clean and safe habitat, establishing agriculture startup firms, using robotic technology to grow clean vegetables, and building high-tech aquaculture.

Participants also suggested building an infrastructure database for the sector and reviewing policies and strategies to support agricultural development in Vietnam.