Key export markets for Vietnam, including the US, the European Union (EU), Japan and China, are tightening controls on pesticide residues and introducing or adjusting multiple maximum residue limits (MRLs) for products such as coffee, dragon fruit, pepper and fruit and vegetables. Some measures are also linked to reviews, withdrawal or changes in pesticide registrations, requiring businesses to adjust production processes.

Europe and Japan are expanding quarantine requirements, pest control measures and import conditions for products of plant and animal origin. China is setting new standards for processed foods, with stricter requirements on raw materials, additives, traceability and storage conditions.

In some markets, control measures are applied to specific products. Ukraine has placed Vietnamese durian under enhanced scrutiny over concerns about pesticide residues. Brazil, Indonesia and markets in the Middle East have added requirements on facility registration, storage conditions, quarantine certification and technical standards for imports.

Ngo Xuan Nam, Deputy Director of the Vietnam SPS Office, said tightening technical barriers is becoming more widespread globally, not only in developed markets but also in emerging ones. This requires exporters to keep up with regulations, strengthen quality control, and meet traceability and international standards to avoid risks and maintain orders.

Agri-firms must abide by technical barriers to increase export market share

VOV.VN - Local agricultural businesses have been advised to create green and clean products which fully meet food safety and hygiene standards set by importing countries as they strive to increase their export market shares moving forward, according to industry insiders.