Senior representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) came together in Sydney for the fourth Viet Nam-Australia Agriculture Forum (VAAF).
The Forum was co-chaired by Tina Hutchison, DAFF Deputy Secretary for Agriculture Trade and Regulation, and Tran Thanh Nam MAE Vice Minister Agriculture and Environment. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a strong and lasting partnership, with discussions covering technical market access, food safety, climate smart agriculture, and opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
Viet Nam is an important market for Australian agriculture, with two-way agriculture, fisheries and forestry trade between our two countries valued at $4.4b in 2024. Top Australian exports to Viet Nam last year included:
- Cotton – A$921 million
- Wheat – A$491 million
- Beef and veal – A$210 million
- Live cattle – A$169 million
- Malt – A$162 million
With respect to the success of the agriculture trade relationship to date, both co-chairs conveyed their commitment to a productive, future-focused relationship, leveraging the VAAF and related working groups. Australia looks forward to the fifth meeting, to be hosted by Viet Nam in 2027.
Ms Hutchison said the Forum, held on August 21, plays a key role in building cooperation:
“VAAF and its technical working groups are vital in resolving market access issues and creating opportunities for mutual growth. It was a privilege to host our MAE colleagues and continue this important work,” she said.
