Vietnam's agro-forestry and fishery exports to the EU have seen steady growth, driven by the EU's market size of over 450 million consumers and its stringent food quality and safety standards. Vietnamese exporters are adapting to these evolving regulations to maintain market access.
The demand for eco-friendly and organic products presents opportunities for Vietnamese exports, as noted by the Vietnam Sanitary and Phyto-sanitary Notification Authority and Enquiry Point (SPS Vietnam). Vietnam's natural conditions allow it to produce items like dragon fruit, mango, and lychee, which are less common in the EU.
The EU's standards encompass SPS regulations, addressing food safety inspections, quarantine procedures, food additives, technical barriers, and pesticide residue limits. According to Ngo Xuan Nam, Deputy Director of SPS Vietnam, "Most Vietnamese agricultural products meet food safety and phytosanitary standards. However, challenges remain in certain sectors experiencing rapid expansion. Some businesses and farming regions have yet to fully standardize production processes and strictly adhere to market regulations, which make them more vulnerable to violations."
Director of SPS Vietnam Le Thanh Hoa emphasized the need for comprehensive quality monitoring, stating, "We must continue to closely monitor the quality of agricultural exports. Mostly we oversee the final stage, but we must manage risks throughout the production process, from fertilizers and pesticides to farming techniques. Only by overseeing the whole procedure can we ensure product safety."
Businesses are encouraged to stay updated on EU regulatory changes to enhance product quality and meet food safety requirements, thereby maintaining Vietnam's competitive position in the global agricultural market.
Source: VOV World