Focus on Vietnam

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The department started operating under the new structure on March 1, according to the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the US Department of Agriculture. “While these reforms aim to improve coordination and efficiency, they may also present challenges,” the FAS said. “Businesses should anticipate potential delays in administrative processes such as approvals, licensing and permits during the transition period.” The new MAE department oversees agriculture, forestry, fisheries, irrigation, disaster prevention, rural development and environmental protection. The deputy prime minister who oversees the MAE is focused on ensuring development while protecting the environment and “aligning agricultural policies with sustainability and food security,” the FAS said. Agriculture is a significant portion of the country’s economy, employing 26.5% of the population and accounting for 11.9% ...