Farm produce’s future export prospects (VOV) -Vietnam’s agricultural products exported in 2013 have increased by 1.5% to US$25.25 billion, defying a fall in global market demand. According to the latest report by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), November’s agricultural exports were estimated at US$2.42 billion in revenue. Dr. Dang Kim Son, Head of the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development (IPSARD), is optimistic about future prospects of Vietnam’s agricultural products, both locally and internationally. He says the successful performance will depend on the possibility of ensuring food hygiene and safety and increasing the added value of products in the farming sector.  Metro Cash & Carry Vietnam Director General Philippe Bacac who has ten years of experience in developing trade infrastructure facilities and supply chains, says domestic farmers have huge potential for seafood, fruit, and vegetable production. He recommends that they focus on improving the quality and competitiveness of products, and establishing closer links with exporters. In mid-November, Vietnam had its first Shanghai-bound shipment of 23 tonnes of dragon fruit, paving the way for agricultural products to corner the Chinese market through the Metro distribution network. Metro operates in 32 countries and territories around the world. Metro Singapore Office Representative Do Kim Dung said the first dragon fruit shipment was part of a contract signed by Rong Do Company and there will be more orders in the near future. Dung says Metro is seeking potential partners to ensure a steady supply of high-quality garlic, ginger, lemons, rambutan, and strawberries from Vietnam. She emphasizes the importance of strictly adhering to origin and quality regulations. Local exporters have to meet the British Retail Consortium (BRC) standards, International Food Standard (IFS), and Good Agricultural Practice (GAP), with strong commitments to providing an annual volume of 8,000 tonnes of farm produce for Asian and European markets. Since early this year, Metro has purchased more than US$6 million worth of Vietnamese fruit, vegetables, and seafood for its 747 retail centres in the world. It plans to sign more contracts worth US$12 million with Vietnam next year. VOV