The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) is emphasizing more investment in
agriculture and the promotion of rice production, also to ensure the nation’s food security. In 2007, the
ratio of foreign investment capital in the agriculture sector was 6.7 percent of the total FDI in
Viet Nam. Main investors are from neighbouring Asian countries. Although the figure is not high,
MARD claims that with over 700 ongoing projects, FDI in agriculture has generated annual revenue of
about US$312 million and export turnover of more than US$100 million per year. Projects have also
created job opportunities in factories and processing zones for approximately 75 000 people.15
Agriculture is an encouraged investment sector and, as such, subject to incentives.