Vietnam Eyes Greater Penetration of ASEAN Agricultural Markets

Vietnam sees strong potential to expand its agricultural exports to ASEAN member states, according to To Viet Chau, deputy director of the Department of International Cooperation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. In an interview with VIR’s Oanh Nguyen, Chau outlined the opportunities and strategies needed to unlock the region’s vast market.

Expanding Agricultural Footprints in ASEAN

Vietnam’s agricultural exports have shown significant growth across ASEAN nations in recent years. Between 2021 and 2023, the country recorded high export revenues to the region, particularly in rice exports. Chau emphasized that ASEAN has become a key and promising market for Vietnam’s agricultural, forestry, and aquatic (AFA) products.

“ASEAN remains a strategic focal point for many nations. As a member, Vietnam benefits not only from its geographic location but also from deepening economic ties and preferential trade agreements,” he noted.

Key Vietnamese exports to ASEAN include rice, seafood, fruits and vegetables, coffee, pepper, timber, and wood products—all benefiting from zero per cent tariffs under the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA). This agreement simplifies customs procedures and enhances the flow of goods across member countries, offering a significant advantage for Vietnamese exporters.

Furthermore, proximity to ASEAN markets translates into lower logistics and storage costs. This is especially advantageous amid rising shipping expenses to distant markets such as the United States and Europe. “Focusing on closer markets like ASEAN makes strategic sense and improves the competitiveness of Vietnamese goods,” Chau added.

Nevertheless, ASEAN countries—like many others globally—are tightening quality control and import standards. To remain competitive, Vietnam must enhance the quality of its products, diversify its offerings, and strengthen its national brand in agricultural exports.

Government Collaboration and Trade Facilitation

Chau detailed the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment’s (MoAE) efforts to work in tandem with other ministries and international partners to support exporters.

The MoAE has spearheaded initiatives to help local businesses and authorities understand and benefit from ASEAN’s tariff reduction policies. It has also actively organized trade promotion events aimed at enhancing Vietnam’s AFA exports to ASEAN countries.

Bilateral discussions held during official ministerial visits have focused on eliminating technical trade barriers. In addition, Vietnam’s regular participation in annual ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry meetings, along with engagements in various industry-specific working groups, allows for real-time information exchange and problem-solving for exporters.

“These forums are crucial in addressing emerging issues and sharing market insights to support our agricultural businesses,” Chau explained.

Vietnam–New Zealand Cooperation: A Model for Overcoming Trade Barriers

Chau also highlighted the mutually beneficial partnership between Vietnam and New Zealand in the context of regional trade agreements. Both countries are active participants in multiple frameworks that support agricultural cooperation.

“There’s ample room for collaboration in areas such as information sharing on sanitary and phytosanitary standards, technical trade barriers, and food safety regulations,” he said.

Vietnam and New Zealand are working to establish mutual recognition of standards in high-potential areas like fruit, seafood, and processed goods. They also promote business networking and government-supported trade promotion activities.

Beyond market access, the partnership is focused on technical cooperation. Vietnam expects to receive support from New Zealand in areas such as food safety risk analysis, development of national monitoring systems, and training for inspection and certification procedures.

New Zealand can further assist by helping develop food traceability systems and providing technology, equipment, and digital tools to improve safety and documentation for Vietnamese seafood exports.

“Our shared goals include improving product quality, reducing post-harvest losses, and adding value through better processing and preservation technologies,” Chau said.

With strategic partnerships and a commitment to meeting regional standards, Vietnam is well-positioned to enhance its agricultural presence across the ASEAN market.