Conference discusses developing Lam Dong high-tech farming

Illustrative image (Source: VNA)

Lam Dong (VNA) – The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development held a conference in the Central Highlands city of Da Lat on August 14 to discuss developing high-tech agriculture in Lam Dong province. 

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Quoc Doanh said over the past three decades of renovation, Vietnam has become self-sufficient in food with an annual export of 30 billion USD, providing livelihoods for 10 million rural households and contributing nearly 22 percent of the gross domestic product and 23-35 percent of exports. 

However, the agricultural sector tends to grow slowly due to spontaneous and small-scale production, limited technological application in agro-forestry-fisheries, and impacts of climate change, environment pollution and food hygiene. 

Participants hailed Lam Dong for being on the way towards a model of high-tech farming. 

A representative from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s General Department of Land Management underscored the need to refine regulations on the rights of land users and issue policies to encourage the rent of land use rights. 

According to the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), outstanding loans for the field has amounted to 177.4 billion VND (7.71 million USD), but farmers currently lack information about domestic and foreign consumption markets. 

The SBV directed commercial banks to offer more loans to the drive and pledged all possible support throughout the process. 

On the occasion, the MARD presented certificates recognising DaLat Hasfarm and An Huu companies as high-tech agricultural firms, and a decision recognising Thai Phien high-tech agricultural zone.