Science and technology continue to play an essential role in Industry 4.0, which continues to develop strongly worldwide, a senior official has said.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien made the comments at a workshop on October 18 regarding the application of science and technology and innovation for sustainable agricultural development.

“It is estimated that science and technology contributed 35 per cent to the success of Vietnam’s agricultural production in the past,” Deputy Minister Tien said, adding that the agriculture sector and rural development have a vital role to play in the country’s economic structure and in ensuring national food security.

The agricultural sector posted export revenue of $53.4 billion last year, a 9.7 per cent increase against 2021.

In the first nine months of this year, agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports totaled $38.48 billion, of which crops accounted for $19.54 billion, or just over half.

According to the Deputy Minister, Vietnam targets becoming a nation that produces and supplies transparent, responsible, and sustainable food in the near future. To that end, it plans to produce green food and have an agricultural system releasing minimal emissions and operating under sustainable practices.

“This transformation will be facilitated by promoting the development and application of science and technology and innovation in agricultural production, expanding public-private partnerships (PPPs), and placing a strong emphasis on applying digital technology within agricultural value chains,” he said.