Can Tho, Dutch city work to curb after-harvest agricultural loss

Can Tho authorities met with the mayor of the Netherlands’ Oss city to discuss cooperation on reducing the loss of agricultural produce after harvest on October 19.

The yield lost across the Mekong Delta city has been caused by outdated technology and transport, and reliance on traditional methods that overlook the importance of preservation.

The situation has damaged the sector’s quality and quantity. Poor preservation often results in vitamins and minerals lost and even products contaminated. This pushes prices down by up to 20 percent.

Oss’ Mayor Wobine Buijs Gkaudemans said Can Tho’s soil and weather are similar to her hometown. She said she hopes to cooperate to prevent post-harvest losses.

Oss will send experts and specialised machinery to Can Tho in a bid to improve local performances in processing, preserving and packaging produce, the mayor said.

Can Tho People’s Committee Chairman Le Hung Dung spoke about local commitments to helping farmers access non-interest loans and improve transport infrastructure.

Dutch investors are welcomed in with a favourable business climate and policies, he said.-VNA