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Seminar seeks measures to step up rice exports
Representatives from more than 100 rice import-export businesses both at home and abroad attended a seminar in the Mekong Delta province of Hau Giang to discuss ways of boosting Vietnamese rice exports.
The event formed part of the country’s first Rice Festival, which opened on November 28 to celebrate the values of the age-old rice civilization and honour rice growers.
Participants analysed a number of issues regarding world rice trade and shortcomings in Vietnam’s rice exports. They also put forth proposals to help concerned agencies work out proper strategies for Vietnamese rice to penetrate the world market.
Richard Moore, a brand name expert, suggested Vietnam should build up its own trademarks for rice under a sound investment strategy covering every detail, from packing to the sales and distribution methods.
Phan Van Chinh, Director of the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s Import-Export Department, told the participants that Vietnam has recorded a high growth rate in rice exports since the beginning of 2009, thanks to close coordination among the relevant ministries, agencies, localities and the Vietnam Food Association (VFA).
Statistics released by the VFA show that since 1989 the country has exported more than 69.8 million tonnes of rice, raking in US$18.5 billion.
Vietnam has now emerged as the world’s second largest rice exporter, and accounted for large shares in most importing markets such as Asia, Africa, America, the Middle East and Europe.
Despite the impact of the global economic crisis, the country expects to export a record volume of 6-6.2 million tonnes of rice this year.
The VFA urged local exporters to better manage production and business activities, improve the product quality, build trademarks, maintain existing outlets and expand their markets.
VOV
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