Arabfields, Meriem Senouci, Correspondent, Hanoï, Vietnam — As global competition intensifies in agricultural trade, Vietnam is accelerating investments in post-harvest preservation technologies to reduce export costs and improve the competitiveness of its farm products on international markets.
Agriculture remains one of the country’s key economic pillars, with Vietnamese products reaching more than 190 export destinations worldwide. Yet industry experts say that significant losses continue to occur after harvest, limiting profitability and creating logistical challenges for exporters.
According to industry estimates released in 2026, post-harvest losses remain substantial across several agricultural sectors. Fruit and vegetable losses can reach between 20% and 30%, while seafood and rice producers also face notable waste during storage, handling and transportation. These losses not only reduce farmer income but also increase the overall cost of bringing products to overseas buyers.
For growers such as Nguyen Van Loc, a mango farmer in the Mekong Delta, better preservation technology can make a noticeable difference. He said improved storage methods have helped producers keep fruit fresh for longer periods, allowing them to target more distant markets without sacrificing quality.
Vietnamese authorities and industry leaders are increasingly focusing on cold-chain infrastructure, advanced packaging systems and real-time monitoring technologies. Specialists believe that modern preservation solutions can extend the storage life of many agricultural products by 1.5 to 2 times compared with current conditions. Such improvements could allow exporters to rely more heavily on sea freight rather than air transport, significantly reducing logistics expenses.
The financial impact could be considerable. Air freight often costs several times more than refrigerated maritime transport, making preservation technology a critical factor in determining export profitability. Longer shelf life also provides exporters with greater flexibility when shipping products to Europe, North America and other distant markets.
Processing and preservation are becoming increasingly important as international buyers tighten standards related to food safety, traceability and environmental sustainability. Businesses that invest in advanced storage systems are finding it easier to meet these requirements while maintaining product quality throughout the supply chain.
Researchers and technology companies are also exploring smart cold-chain solutions that use sensors to monitor temperature, humidity and storage conditions in real time. New packaging materials designed to preserve freshness are beginning to gain traction among exporters seeking to reduce waste and improve product consistency.
Beyond preservation, Vietnam is expanding efforts to increase the value of agricultural by-products. The country generates more than 150 million tons of agricultural residues annually, creating opportunities for new products in the food, pharmaceutical and bio-material sectors. Industry observers believe that more efficient use of these resources could open additional revenue streams while supporting sustainability goals.
Analysts expect preservation technology to play an even larger role in the coming years. If current investment trends continue, post-harvest losses could decline steadily through the end of the decade, while logistics costs for many export categories may fall as cold-chain networks expand. Improved storage capacity is also expected to support stronger export growth by enabling Vietnamese producers to reach markets that were previously difficult to access due to transportation constraints.
For farmers, exporters and policymakers alike, the message is becoming increasingly clear. In a market where quality, efficiency and reliability are essential, modern preservation technology is no longer simply a logistical tool. It is emerging as a strategic asset capable of strengthening Vietnam’s position in the global agricultural trade.
