Vietnam is set to make history as it hosts the prestigious agricultural event, the 34th ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF), for the first time. The event, which is held every year, will alternate between Vietnam and Thailand, with this year’s official co-host being Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (DLG).
The AMAF is an important platform for ASEAN member countries to come together and discuss key issues and challenges facing the agriculture and forestry sectors in the region. It also serves as a forum for promoting cooperation and sharing best practices among the member countries.
Holding the AMAF in Vietnam is a testament to the country’s growing importance in the agricultural sector. With a population of over 96 million, Vietnam is the third largest producer of agricultural products in the ASEAN region, after Indonesia and Thailand. Agriculture plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, employing over 44% of the workforce and contributing to 18% of the country’s GDP.
The theme for this year’s AMAF is “Enhancing ASEAN’s resilience, solidarity, and sustainability in the face of emerging challenges in agriculture and forestry.” This theme reflects the current global trends and challenges that are affecting the agricultural sector, such as climate change, food security, and sustainable development.
During the event, delegates from the 10 ASEAN member countries will engage in discussions on various topics, including promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing food safety and security, and strengthening trade and investment in the agriculture and forestry sectors. The aim is to come up with concrete and actionable solutions to address these issues and ensure the region’s continued growth and development.
The event will also provide a platform for Vietnam to showcase its achievements and advancements in the agriculture and forestry sectors. With rapid economic growth and increased investment in agriculture in recent years, Vietnam has made significant progress in terms of modernizing its agricultural practices and increasing productivity. The country is also a major exporter of key agricultural products such as rice, coffee, and seafood.
The hosting of the AMAF in Vietnam is also expected to boost the country’s agricultural sector and attract more foreign investment. It will provide an opportunity for local farmers, producers, and businesses to network and explore potential partnerships with their counterparts from other ASEAN countries.
In addition, the event will include an agricultural exhibition, where Vietnamese companies can showcase their products and services, providing a platform for them to expand their market reach and increase exports.
The AMAF will also have a positive impact on the tourism industry in Vietnam. With hundreds of delegates and participants from other countries attending the event, it will bring in a significant amount of revenue for the country’s hospitality and tourism sectors. This will also help promote Vietnam as a tourist destination, showcasing its rich culture, history, and cuisine.
In conclusion, the 34th AMAF being held in Vietnam for the first time is a significant milestone for the country and the ASEAN region. It is a testament to Vietnam’s growing importance in the agricultural sector and its commitment to promoting sustainable and resilient agriculture. The event is not only a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences but also an opportunity for Vietnam to strengthen its partnerships and showcase its achievements. Let us look forward to a successful and fruitful AMAF in Vietnam this year.
