PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (C) at a dialogue with farmers from the central and Central Highlands regions, September 28, 2020. (Photo: Bao Trung/laodong.vn)

His made the remark during a dialogue in Monday in Buon Ma Thuot city with farmers in the central and Central Highlands regions.

The dialogue focused on how to iron out difficulties facing agricultural production, new-style rural area development, the processing industry, farm produce export, social security, and the preservation of local ethnic minorities’ culture.     

“We need to expand export markets given the coming into force of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, boost the processing industry, increase investment in agriculture and rural development. It’s necessary to create a skilled and knowledgeable rural workforce and enhance farmers’ self-reliance,” said Mr. Phuc.

He told the participants that agricultural exports would reach 42 billion USD this year, making Vietnam a leading country in Southeast Asia in terms of agriculture. 

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc visits the stall of a Dak Lak business on the sidelines of the dialogue. (Photo: Bao Trung/laodong.vn)

He called local farmers to work harder to help remove the European Commission’s illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU) yellow card warning.

PM Phuc reiterated the Government’s resolve to ensure strong, comprehensive agriculture and rural development, and bring a happy and wealthy life to farmers. 

This is the third dialogue between the government leader and farmers, following the first in the northern province of Hai Duong in 2018, and the second in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho in 2019.