Science, technology at the heart of Vietnam’s agricultural transformation

Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy said agriculture and environment sector must transform its mindset and methods in order to improve productivity, enhance product quality and value, and protect the environment for future generations.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment signs cooperation deals with science associations and enterprises at the workshop, aiming to promote hi-tech applications, sustainability, and the circular economy. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - Vietnam’s agriculture and environment sector is entering a critical breakthrough stage, with science, technology, and digital transformation now positioned as the core pillars of development.

At a workshop on agricultural innovation held on May 10 in Bac Ninh province, Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy emphasised the urgent need for transformation in mindset and methodology.

“To change the landscape, we must innovate. Science, technology, and digital transformation are no longer optional, they are fundamental,” Duy said.

In recent years, Vietnam's agricultural sector has made strides in adopting technology, from high-tech farming and smart livestock management to environmental monitoring via sensors, and the development of digital maps and databases for land, forests, and weather.

“These are positive shifts,” the minister noted. “However, to meet the targets set out in Resolution 57, particularly in achieving breakthrough and sustainable developments, a significant amount of work remains.”

Resolution 57 outlines Vietnam's strategic roadmap for placing science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation at the heart of its national development agenda.

Dr Phan Xuan Dung, Chairman of the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations, called the resolution "visionary" and aligned with global trends. He stressed that sustainable growth musted be grounded on a strong scientific and technological foundation.

He added that Vietnam could reach the goal of entering the top 50 in science and technology competitiveness if current opportunities are fully leveraged.

Bac Ninh province is actively transitioning to high-tech and ecological agriculture.

Chairman of the Bac Ninh provincial People’s Committee Vuong Quoc Tuan said the province is supporting enterprises, cooperatives, and farmers in adopting modern technologies.

He highlighed efforts to encourage public-private partnerships in agricultural R&D, particularly in cultivating high-yield, climate-resilient crops and livestock.

“Science and technology are no longer a choice but a necessity,” Tuan said. “They are key to increasing productivity, protecting natural resources, and improving living standards.”

Bac Ninh is focusing on sustainable rural development, promoting smart, urban, and experiential agriculture, and strengthening linkages between agriculture, trade, services, and tourism.

The province aims to build strong local brands for high-quality agricultural products tied to advanced processing and export systems.

Tuan affirmed that Bac Ninh will provide optimal conditions for applying innovative ideas, research outcomes, and breakthrough technologies.

Nguyen Phu Tien, Deputy Director of the National Digital Transformation Agency, outlined Vietnam’s ambitious digital goals. By 2030, the country aims to rank among the world’s top 50 in digital government, lead ASEAN in AI research, and develop five world-class tech firms. The digital economy is projected to contribute 30% of GDP by that time.

Looking ahead to 2045, Vietnam targets 50% of GDP from the digital economy and a robust network of global tech players.

“These are high targets, but without ambition, there can be no breakthrough,” Tien said, emphasising that human capital is central to all transformation efforts.

Tien urged leaders to be tech-savvy and accountable, noting that the government is drafting bold policies to encourage innovation, including legal room for trial failures and safe environments for experimentation./.