VIETRISA focuses on testing and refining low-emission rice production practices tailored to local conditions, while strengthening linkages between production areas, farmers, and businesses.
The Global Rice Policy Dialogue 2026, co-hosted by the African Union (AU) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), was held in Addis Ababa on 15-16 October. Policymakers, researchers, development partners and private-sector representatives from Asia and Africa discussed sustainable rice production, competitive rice sectors and predictable trade.
Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy, Northern Regional Representative of the Viet Nam Rice Sector Association (VIETRISA), shared Viet Nam’s experience in Policy Panel 1, “Producing Rice Sustainably under Climate, Water and Input Constraints.” The panel examined how countries can maintain rice supplies, improve farmer incomes and respond to water scarcity, climate risks, rising input costs and environmental pressures.
 |
| Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy (far right) representing VIETRISA at the 2026 Global Rice Policy Forum. Photo: Organizers. |
Drawing on experience in the Mekong Delta, Dr. Thuy highlighted drought, salinity intrusion and changing water conditions, as well as rising costs for fertilizer, fuel and labor. She noted that resilient rice supplies depend on both reliable production and support that enables farmers to adapt and maintain their livelihoods.
Viet Nam’s approach combines policy, irrigation and water management, research, technical guidance and agricultural extension. The Program for the Sustainable Development of One Million Hectares of High-Quality, Low-Emission Rice Cultivation Associated with Green Growth in the Mekong Delta by 2030 provides a framework for this transition.
Demonstration models, training for local extension officers and practical farmer guidance help translate production procedures into locally appropriate practices. Before wider application, these measures need to be assessed for environmental performance, productivity, costs and farmer returns, with input from value-chain stakeholders.
VIETRISA connects government agencies, research institutions, local authorities, cooperatives, farmers, and rice businesses. With IRRI, SNV Viet Nam (througth TRVC project) and local partners, the Association supports testing and refinement of low-emission practices, training, and stronger links between production areas, farmers, businesses and markets through the TRVC project.
 |
| Policy panel on "Producing Rice Sustainbly under Climate, Water and Inputs Constraints" held within the framework of the 2026 Global Rice Policy Forum. |
At the Dialogue, VIETRISA also shared its collective trademark, “Viet Nam Green and Low-Emission Rice,” which the Association manages in accordance with its rules of use. The trademark provides a common identity for authorized products, subject to compliance with the prescribed production process and submission of supporting documentation.
Under the TRVC project, rice products bearing the trademark have reached international markets. This experience shows how production practices connect to businesses and markets, supporting the development of a high-quality, low-emission rice value chain.
VIETRISA emphasized that sustainable domestic production and predictable international trade should support one another. More efficient production, stronger farmer livelihoods, competitive value chains and reliable market access all contribute to resilient rice sectors. The Dialogue enabled the Association to bring Viet Nam’s experience and the rice sector’s perspectives into international policy discussions and to build connections for future exchange and cooperation.
VIETRISA thanks IRRI and the organizers for the invitation and financial support that enabled the Association’s representative to attend and share Viet Nam’s experience.
Author: Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy
By the Vietnam Agriculture and Nature newspaper (VAN)
