Sector Achieves Record Export Value Despite Pandemic Disruptions
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On the afternoon of December 13, 2021, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) held a press conference to announce the results of its 2021 performance and outline its key programs and plans for 2022.
For the first time in history, Vietnam’s agro-forestry-fishery exports are expected to surpass USD 47 billion, reaching approximately USD 47.5 billion, far exceeding the initial target of USD 42 billion.
According to Mr. Nguyễn Văn Việt, Director of the Planning Department (MARD), although Covid-19 severely disrupted production and consumption chains, most of the targets assigned by the Government were achieved — and several even exceeded expectations.
The agriculture sector’s total production value grew 2.9%, with crop cultivation being the standout contributor.
In 2021, rice output increased by about 800,000 tons compared to 2020, even though the cultivated area decreased — highlighting improved productivity and efficiency.
Trade Surplus Declines Due to Higher Imports
Despite the strong export performance, Vietnam’s agricultural trade surplus in 2021 was only 50% of 2020’s level, as imports rose faster than exports.
Mr. Việt emphasized that while the overall trade surplus remained positive, import demand for inputs and materialsincreased significantly, particularly in processing and feed production.
Rural Development and Forestry Performance
Regarding new-style rural development, the Ministry registered a goal of 68% of communes meeting new rural standards by 2021. However, by November, only 65.5% had been recognized.
Many localities planned to complete the process in December 2021, but the target remained difficult to achieve because the public investment program for rural construction was not approved in time — leaving most provinces without sufficient funding for implementation.
In forestry, forest coverage remained stable at 42%, while forest quality improved significantly — a major shift from previous years when many areas had trees but poor quality.
Livestock and Fisheries Continue to Grow
The livestock sector recorded positive results:
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The pig herd grew by around 3.6%,
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The chicken flock expanded by 2.5–3%,
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Aquaculture output rose by 3% year-on-year.
Meanwhile, the Ministry focused on food safety, agricultural quality control, and the transition from “agricultural production” to “agricultural economy”, emphasizing multi-value development rather than single-value output.
“This new mindset has been adopted across the entire agricultural system,” said Mr. Nguyễn Văn Việt.
“In 2022, we expect to see these transformations reflected clearly in practice.”