Viet Nam - Indonesia strengthen cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and Halal

On September 22, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Nguyen Quoc Tri held a meeting with Indonesian Ambassador to Viet Nam Adam M. Tugio to discuss orientations for cooperation in agriculture and agricultural trade.

At the meeting, Deputy Minister Nguyen Quoc Tri congratulated Ambassador Adam M. Tugio on beginning his tenure in Viet Nam and expressed his confidence that the Ambassador would serve as an important bridge in promoting the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, particularly in agriculture, fisheries and the environment.

Expanding high-tech fisheries cooperation and Halal market

Speaking highly of Viet Nam’s technological strengths, Ambassador Adam M. Tugio said these strengths provide an important foundation for the two countries to expand cooperation in agriculture and fisheries. The two countries have signed several agreements in the fisheries sector, notably on lobster cooperation. Building on this foundation, he expressed his desire for the two sides to further expand cooperation, particularly by strengthening business connections, promoting investment and sharing aquaculture technologies.

Regarding the Halal market, Ambassador Adam M. Tugio said many localities in Viet Nam have strong potential to develop products and services that meet consumer demand. “Some localities in Viet Nam, such as Hue, have great potential to promote activities related to Halal products. We are ready to share our experience and expertise in this field,” the Ambassador emphasized.

Regarding livestock production, Ambassador Adam M. Tugio proposed that Viet Nam accelerate procedures for importing day-old chicks (DOC) and chicken meat. He also expressed his hope that Indonesia would continue to receive support during the appraisal and licensing process for veterinary vaccine production projects in Viet Nam.

Viet Nam proposes balanced cooperation and resolution of technical issues

Responding to these proposals, Deputy Minister Nguyen Quoc Tri affirmed that Viet Nam wants to continue promoting substantive and effective cooperation while creating more opportunities for business connections and investment between the two sides.

Regarding the development of the Halal market, the Deputy Minister said Viet Nam has strong potential to supply Halal products and is also a popular tourism destination among visitors from the Middle East and Muslim-majority countries. “I propose that Indonesia facilitate access for Halal products originating from Viet Nam to its market. The two sides could also encourage businesses to cooperate in developing the Halal market and bring products to third-country markets,” Deputy Minister Tri said.

The MAE leadership also expressed interest in cooperation in livestock production, processing and the development of dairy product value chains. The Deputy Minister asked the Indonesian side to share more information on its orientations and potential cooperation models. Following the meeting, agencies and businesses from the two countries could continue discussions, establish technical connections and explore suitable investment opportunities.

Viet Nam also acknowledged Indonesia’s interest in increasing investment in aquaculture. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment affirmed that it would facilitate appropriate cooperation activities while ensuring the interests of all parties.

Regarding the proposal to promote exports of day-old chicks (DOC) and chicken meat to Viet Nam, Deputy Minister Nguyen Quoc Tri said market access for animal products must be based on assessments of veterinary conditions, disease safety, food safety and quarantine requirements in accordance with Vietnamese regulations.

He therefore asked Indonesia to coordinate with relevant authorities to provide complete dossiers and technical information and carry out the required procedures. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment will direct its agencies to provide guidance to the Indonesian side within their functions and authority, facilitating the timely and proper processing of the procedures.