Lawmakers discussed in groups the progress of socio-economic development of 2014 and the first few months of 2015 at the ongoing ninth session of the 13th National Assembly in Hanoi on May 25.

Tran Hoang Ngan, a NA deputy from Ho Chi Minh City, said it was a good sign that the economy grew at 6.03 percent in the first quarter of 2015.

However, he said it should be noted that many industries were still struggling, especially small and medium enterprises and the agricultural sector.

Many other delegates expressed concerns at difficulties in finding outlets for farm products.

Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, also a delegate from HCM City, said there must be a long-term solution to the problem of farmers struggling to sell their products.

He called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Planning to revamp production by supporting farmers in using technology to enhance the quality of their products and supporting them with post-harvest technologies.

The Trade Ministry, according to Hoa, must be a link to the outside market. He said it should create policies that encourage firms to build storage areas, thus expanding opportunities to sell farm products in major markets instead of relying only on small traders.

Nguyen Thi Quyet Tam, a member from HCM City, asked the NA to hold a special session to assess the rural situation.

Members also discussed the State budget and praised the Government for ensuring social stability and delivering public services.

However, they also called on the Government to ensure if Vietnam had the capacity to pay back its public debts, which are expected to account for 64 percent of GDP this year.

The plenary and group sessions continue on May 26.-VNA