However, to date these have only be

However, to date these have only been pilot programs and have had no real global impact on rice production in Vietnam.

Scientists and managers are now pondering alternative approaches to improve rice growers’ living conditions, by building a national rice brand name and creating added value for Vietnamese rice.

On a positive note, Vietnamese rice was exported to 135 nations around the globe in 2014 including the demanding markets of the US, EU, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore.

However, the Asian market accounts for the lion’s share, or 77%, of exports. Despite huge export volume, the quality and competitive edge of Vietnamese rice remain low, which is not appealing to foreign investors.