On November 8, 2024, at the Bac Lieu Provincial Cultural Center, Foreign Trade University and University of Economics and Law, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with the Department of Industry and Trade of Bac Lieu Province, organized the workshop titled “International Trade in the New Context: Opportunities and Challenges for Vietnamese Agricultural Products.” This workshop is part of the WTO Chair Program at Foreign Trade University, funded by the World Trade Organization (WTO).
The workshop featured the participation of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Thu Huong – Vice President of Foreign Trade University; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Vu Nam – Vice President of University of Economics and Law, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Tran Thanh Men – Director of the Department of Industry and Trade of Bac Lieu Province; Dr. Nguyen Anh Phong – Deputy Director of the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam – Deputy Secretary-General of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), along with representatives from local authorities, press agencies, businesses, and educational institutions in Bac Lieu Province.
In her opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Thu Huong emphasized that the workshop presents a valuable opportunity for delegates, experts, businesses, policymakers, and other stakeholders to exchange insights and propose solutions to help Vietnamese agricultural products overcome emerging challenges in international trade, thus continuing to serve as a driving force in foreign trade activities.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Thu Huong, Vice President of Foreign Trade University/Chair of the WTO Chair Program Steering Committee, delivering the opening speech
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Vu Nam highlighted the significance of signing a cooperation agreement under the WTO Chair Program between the University of Economics and Law, VNU-HCM, and Foreign Trade University at this event. Through this program, both institutions are committed to advancing research initiatives in international trade law, supporting the business community, and promoting deeper engagement in global issues.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Vu Nam, Vice President of the University of Economics and Law, addressing the audience at the workshop
In his welcoming speech, Mr. Tran Thanh Men, Director of the Department of Industry and Trade of Bac Lieu Province, appreciated the organization of the workshop by Foreign Trade University and the University of Economics and Law, VNU-HCM. He noted that the event offers an opportunity for participants to enhance their understanding of trade remedy measures and international trade more broadly.
Mr. Tran Thanh Men, Director of the Department of Industry and Trade of Bac Lieu Province, delivering his welcome speech
The workshop included two main activities: a Presentation Session and a Roundtable Discussion.
The Presentation Session featured two key topics presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Ha, Director of the Institute for Innovation Studies at Foreign Trade University, and Dr. Nguyen Anh Phong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Discussions focused on trade remedy measures for agricultural products and the adaptation of agricultural enterprises to the rising market demand for “green” products.
The Roundtable Discussion, moderated by Dr. Vu Kim Ngan, Deputy Director of the WTO Chair Program at Foreign Trade University, included speakers such as Mr. Tran Thanh Men; Dr. Dao Gia Phuc, Director of the Institute of International and Comparative Law at the University of Economics and Law; Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam from VASEP; and Mr. Pham Van Muoi, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Bac Lieu Province. This session explored opportunities and challenges for local businesses in international trade, focusing on export trends, key products, and policy directions to boost exports of Bac Lieu’s high-potential products. Specific challenges, such as food safety standards and technical barriers (TBT/SPS), were analyzed alongside initiatives to support businesses in accessing international markets. Furthermore, the speakers discussed export strategies and the distinct approaches needed to penetrate major markets like the US, EU, Japan, China, and South Korea. The session also underscored the role of research institutions and universities as vital bridges between government agencies and businesses, helping to implement policies and address challenges effectively.
The workshop concluded with a closing address from a representative of Foreign Trade University, who expressed heartfelt thanks to government authorities, businesses, and co-organizers for their significant contributions to the success of the event on “International Trade in the New Context: Opportunities and Challenges for Vietnamese Agricultural Products.”
Below are some highlights from the workshop:
Round table discussion
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Ha presented on “Trade RemedyMeasures for Agricultural Products: Practical Insights and Recommendations for Vietnam.”
Dr. Nguyen Anh Phong discussed “Agricultural Enterprises in the Context of Rising Market Demand for ‘Green’ Products.”
Participants raised questions and concerns during the Presentation Session.
Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam from VASEP addressed inquiries from businesses.
Roundtable Discussion
Other event highlights:
Group photo of the organizing committee, experts, speakers, and attendees
