February 28, 2018

USDA opens new office in Vietnam as agri trade expands between 2 nations

The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently opened a new office in Hanoi, Vietnam, reflecting the growing agricultural trade between the two countries.

The USDA said the office will play a vital role in helping expand the US' $2.5 billion agricultural export market in Vietnam.

"Growing agricultural trade between the United States and Vietnam means new opportunities for American producers," said Greg Ibach, USDA undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs. 

"With this increase in trade comes increased pest and disease risk, and our in-country expertise will ensure the safest trade possible, while still providing greater options for US consumers", he added.

According to USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Ted McKinney,

Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing global markets for US farm and food products, currently ranking as the US' 11th-largest customer.

"The expansion of USDA's presence in Vietnam is a clear indication of this country's importance as a US trading partner", he stressed.

The APHIS Hanoi office will maintain technical working relationships with its Vietnamese counterparts to resolve any concerns associated with the science-based standards both countries employ to prevent the introduction of animal and plant pests and diseases. 

US Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink, APHIS Deputy Administrator Cheryle Blakely, and Vietnam's Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam formally opened the office. 

APHIS' international mission is to protect and promote US agricultural health through internationally based animal and plant health expertise.