The article highlights the significance of Vietnam's Plant Protection Department in the country's agricultural development, with a focus on its role in pest control and international trade of agricultural products. Established in 1961, the department has played a crucial part in transforming Vietnam from a hunger-stricken nation to a major agricultural exporter, with an export value of over $40 billion. It has implemented advanced pest management techniques and encouraged the use of pest-resistant varieties, contributing to successful agricultural outcomes and enhancing income levels for farmers.
Additionally, the department has been instrumental in the export of fresh fruits to several countries, including the US, EU, and Japan, by negotiating technical barriers and ensuring compliance with phytosanitary standards. Since 2017, the department has overseen food safety management for plant-origin products, inspecting from production to export and import stages, to ensure a safe and reliable food supply.