Vietnamese agricultural exports have encountered 130 warnings from the European Union (EU) due to pesticide residues and other safety violations. The EU is a key market for Vietnam, with 2024 export revenues reaching $7.5 billion, representing 12% of Vietnam's total agricultural export value. However, safety warnings and stricter import regulations are affecting this trade relationship.
At an Emergency Conference on February 24, Ngo Xuan Nam, Deputy Director of the Vietnam SPS Office, reported that since 2024, the EU has issued 130 warnings about Vietnamese exports. In comparison, Thailand had 74 warnings, Indonesia 29, South Korea 17, Malaysia 9, and Japan 6. This indicates higher scrutiny of Vietnamese exports.
From 2023 to 2024, violations related to chemical residues increased by 60%, from 38 to 61. In early 2024, Vietnam's SPS Office received five EU warnings, indicating a trend that could affect future trade agreements. The EU has also flagged Vietnamese products for microbial contamination, mold toxins, excessive food additives, and environmental pollutants.
Vietnamese seafood, plant-based products, and processed foods are often cited for antibiotic residues and microbial contamination. Ngo Xuan Nam attributes the high number of warnings to non-compliant pesticide use, insufficient pest control, and failure to meet importer regulations. In aquaculture, misuse of antibiotics and incorrect dosages are issues.
Certification fraud is a concern, with some exporters using GlobalGAP certifications illegally. Dang Phuc Nguyen of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association noted that this damages Vietnam's reputation and increases the risk of tighter EU import controls.
Experts urge Vietnam to improve pesticide and antibiotic regulations, enhance inspections, and prevent certification fraud to protect its $7.5 billion EU export sector. Strengthening regulations is necessary to maintain competitiveness and compliance in global markets.
Source: Vietnam Net