Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at a conference on one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice cultivation associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta by 2030. (Photo: VNA/Duong Giang)

PM Chinh emphasized that rice is a key sector where Vietnam has a competitive advantage, and the Mekong Delta has great potential in terms of human resources, land, climate, and natural conditions.

Describing rice as a strategic commodity of Vietnam, PM Chinh said rice production is not just about ensuring national food security and social stability; it is a lifeline for millions of farming households and a major driver of exports. Moreover, it plays a critical role in global food security and enhances Vietnam's international reputation.

The project is of paramount significance for regional farmers, the rice industry, and Vietnam's broader efforts to combat climate change, aiming for net-zero emissions in line with commitments made at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), he said.

The PM underlined that Vietnam is the first country to implement a large-scale low-emission rice production program. This is also the world’s first project to produce one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice under government-level direction, which has attracted significant attention from international partners.