Vietnam Approves Biotechnology Development Plan for Agriculture and Environment

The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam's government has given its approval for a comprehensive plan aimed at elevating biotechnology into a cornerstone sector that fuels innovation within its agricultural and environmental frameworks. This strategic initiative is built upon the pillars of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation. The overarching goals of this plan include achieving a high level of proficiency in core and strategic biotechnologies, cultivating a robust ecosystem for biotechnology enterprises and their associated strategic technology products, and significantly boosting competitiveness to support a sustainable agricultural model that is green and circular. Looking ahead to 2045, Vietnam envisions itself as a leader in mastering advanced biotechnologies, including next-generation biotechnology, strategic biotechnology, and gene-editing technologies. The successful application of these technologies is expected to lead to the development of industrial-scale products and the establishment of a techno-economic sector poised to supply high-quality and safe products to both domestic consumers and international markets. The plan also outlines the creation of a dedicated market for agricultural and environmental biotechnology. This is intended to solidify Vietnam's position as a preeminent global and regional player in smart biotechnology production and services. Economically, the plan projects a substantial increase in business investment and growth, targeting a 70 percent rise. Furthermore, it sets an ambitious goal for biotechnology products to substitute at least 60 percent of currently imported goods. The biotechnology industry is also slated to contribute 15 percent to the overall value-added within its sector. To facilitate the realization of these ambitious objectives, the plan details six priority tasks and solutions. These encompass: developing scientific and technological advancements to bolster agriculture and environmental sectors; strengthening biotechnology capabilities through infrastructure, human resources, and research; fostering the development of the biotechnology industry for agricultural and environmental applications; establishing and refining legal and policy frameworks to encourage industry growth; enhancing international collaboration in biotechnology; and increasing public awareness and communication regarding the biotechnology industry.