Vietnam–Israel agricultural cooperation suggested to move beyond technology transfer to co-development

Success ten years from now should not simply be measured by how many Israeli technologies have been sold in Vietnam. Success would mean seeing technologies that were tested here, adapted with Vietnamese partners, supported locally, scaled commercially, and potentially further developed or manufactured in Vietnam for other Southeast Asian markets. Vietnam and Israel are exploring stronger cooperation in technology and innovation within the agricultural sector, with a focus on moving beyond technology transfer to co-development. This proposed shift signifies Vietnam's desire to not only adopt Israeli agricultural advancements but to integrate them deeply into its own system, fostering local innovation and production capabilities. The goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where technologies are tested, refined, and commercialized within Vietnam, with the potential for export to the broader Southeast Asian region. Vietnam has consistently sought to leverage Israel's expertise in high-tech agriculture, recognizing its potential to address challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and the need for increased food production. By moving towards co-development, Vietnam aims to build its own capacity in agricultural innovation and manufacturing. Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Israel has shown robust growth, with trade turnover set to approach $4 billion USD. Strengthening cooperation in the agricultural technology sector is expected to further enhance this economic relationship, creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries. The emphasis on local adaptation and co-development underscores Vietnam's strategy to build self-reliance and enhance its position as a regional hub for agricultural technology and production. This approach aligns with Vietnam's broader economic development goals, which include fostering high-tech industries and increasing value-added exports.