7-8-2023 (HANOI) Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam has issued a directive aimed at safeguarding the nation’s food security in the face of potential threats to global supply. The directive, posted on the government’s website on Sunday (August 6), outlines measures to bolster rice production and exports while ensuring a balanced approach to domestic consumption.
In response to recent challenges in the global rice market, Chinh has directed both the agriculture and environment ministries to focus on expanding major planting areas. The goal is to achieve a robust rice production of over 43 million tons in the years to come, strengthening Vietnam’s position as a key player in the rice trade.
Acknowledging the importance of maintaining a secure food supply, the prime minister emphasized the need to strike a balance between domestic demand and international exports. He also urged the removal of technical barriers that may hinder the expansion of overseas sales.
The prime minister’s directive comes on the heels of actions taken by other major rice-producing nations. India, a prominent rice exporter, recently imposed restrictions on certain rice shipments, raising concerns about the global availability of essential food staples. Additionally, Thailand has called on farmers to reduce rice planting due to inadequate rainfall, leading to potential supply disruptions.
Chinh highlighted that some Vietnamese traders had engaged in significant rice purchases, causing localized imbalances in supply and demand and resulting in unjustifiably high local grain prices. To address this issue, the prime minister emphasized the importance of curbing speculation, illegal profiteering, and actions that disrupt the local market. Such measures aim to preserve Vietnam’s reputation as a reliable rice supplier on the global stage.
In line with the directive, the trade ministry has also taken steps to stabilize the local rice market. Minister Nguyen Hong Dien has emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate stockpiles as mandated by law and ensuring that contractual obligations with trading partners are honored. The ministry’s efforts seek to provide stability in the domestic rice market while cautiously navigating new trade relationships.
As Vietnam works to strengthen its food security and optimize rice production, these measures are poised to not only safeguard domestic supply but also contribute to global food stability in an increasingly uncertain environment.
