Netherlands shares experience in agricultural development

At a financial forum for Vietnam’s agriculture, held in Hanoi on June 17, Sharon pointed out that banks are unwilling to finance rural families because of the risks. Financial organisations do not prioritise agriculture, and agricultural businesses lack efficient management skills, preventing them from accessing financial information and loans.

She expressed the hope that the Vietnam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR) and the Netherlands Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality will work close together to address the issue.

MARD Minister Cao Duc Phat affirmed that the forum provided a good chance for Vietnamese and Dutch partners to discuss challenges, potential and cooperative opportunities and find ways to help credit organisations play a more active role in agricultural production chains.

He noted that Vietnamese banks always give priority to offering credit and capital for farmers and agricultural businesses, however, there is a big gap between farmers’ demand and supply.

With annual growth of 3-4%, agriculture plays an important role in ensuring food security, and generating jobs and income for 70% of people in rural areas. Vietnam is restructuring its economy, including agriculture, towards sustainable socio-economic development and poverty reduction.

He stressed that the Prime Minister has approved an agricultural restructuring project aiming to improve the quality, added value and sustainable development, of which farmers play a key role and businesses are a driving force behind development.

Phat called on Dutch businesses to cooperate with Vietnam to develop agriculture sustainably, improve the productivity and quality, and ensure food security and environmentally friendly farming techniques, bringing practical benefits for both sides.