The ASEAN-China Trade Fair, CAEXPO 2024, celebrated its 21st edition this year in Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China, showcasing exemplary enterprises from across Asia. VIA (Vietnam International Agriculture), one of Vietnam’s leading agricultural export companies, had the honor of welcoming Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc to its booth at this prestigious event on September 24, 2024. During the visit, the company highlighted its plans to expand its reach in the Chinese market with its premier coconut products. This article delves into the Deputy Prime Minister’s visit and the promising future of VIA in the global coconut industry.
1. Deputy Prime Minister Visits Exemplary Enterprises’ Booths
The ASEAN-China Trade Fair (CAEXPO) is a significant event fostering trade relationships and economic growth between ASEAN countries and China. This year’s fair witnessed the participation of over a thousand enterprises, displaying a vast array of agricultural products, including fresh produce, processed goods, and industrial innovations. Among the Vietnamese enterprises, VIA stood out as one of the four honored companies to receive a personal visit from Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc.
1.1 Highlighting the Importance of Vietnam’s Agricultural Export Industry
During the visit, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc underscored the crucial role of Vietnam’s agricultural export industry in the nation’s economic growth. He emphasized the opportunities that come with Vietnam’s expanded trade relations, particularly with China, a key trading partner. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that VIA’s role in the coconut export sector strengthens the reputation of Vietnamese agricultural products globally, benefiting both farmers and local communities.
1.2 VIA’s Export Plans for China
Representing VIA was Mr. Tom Nguyen, the company’s director, who provided insights into its growth trajectory and ambitions. He reported that VIA is poised to export its first shipments of fresh coconuts to China, a development that aligns with the goals outlined in the newly signed protocol between Vietnam and China. This protocol focuses on enhancing agricultural trade by streamlining export regulations and ensuring product quality and safety standards.
Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc encouraged VIA to adhere to this protocol, reiterating the importance of compliance to build sustainable and fruitful trade relations. He also expressed optimism about the company’s potential for future success, especially in meeting the rising demand for high-quality Vietnamese coconuts across various markets.
2. VIA Plans to Expand Both Its Product Range and Market
As a leader in the Vietnamese coconut export industry, VIA has established a strong presence in multiple international markets. The company has already expanded its market reach to Japan, India, Italy, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates, among others, and is now looking to strengthen its foothold in the Chinese market. Here’s a closer look at the company’s strategies to expand both its product range and global market presence.
2.1 Expanding Product Offerings
VIA is committed to providing a diverse range of coconut-based products, catering to different consumer preferences worldwide. The company’s product line includes:
- Fresh Coconuts: The core of Vietnam’s coconut export industry, fresh coconuts are highly sought after for their refreshing water and rich nutritional value.
- Dried Coconuts: Processed and packaged for extended shelf life, dried coconuts are popular in markets requiring long-lasting coconut products.
- Frozen Coconut Water: Capturing the natural taste of fresh coconut water, this product offers convenient and longer storage, ideal for international markets.
- Canned Coconut Beverages: Ready-to-drink coconut beverages are an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers seeking a natural, hydrating option.
- Coconut Shell Charcoal: An eco-friendly product used in various industries, from fuel to water purification.
By offering such a variety of coconut products, VIA meets the demands of diverse markets, solidifying Vietnam’s position as a global leader in coconut exports.
2.2 Expanding Market Presence in China and Beyond
China, with its rapidly growing consumer market, presents immense potential for VIA’s coconut products. This expansion aligns with the company’s strategic goals of entering high-growth markets, responding to increasing consumer demand for natural, nutritious beverages, and sustainable products. The company’s entry into the Chinese market is only the beginning, as it actively explores opportunities in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
To successfully enter these markets, VIA prioritizes compliance with each region’s safety and quality standards. In addition, the company has achieved several international certifications, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality, safe products. This reputation for excellence is pivotal in establishing trust and credibility with new international partners and consumers.
2.3 Ensuring Sustainable Production and Ethical Practices
Sustainability and ethical sourcing are core values for VIA. The company collaborates with local farmers, ensuring that they benefit from fair trade practices and are supported in adopting sustainable farming methods. This approach not only contributes to environmental preservation but also enhances the livelihoods of coconut farmers in Vietnam.
The company’s sustainability initiatives include eco-friendly packaging for its products and reducing waste by creating additional products, such as coconut shell charcoal, from materials that might otherwise be discarded. This holistic approach resonates with global consumers, particularly in markets where environmental responsibility is a priority.
Conclusion
The recent visit by Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc to the VIA booth at CAEXPO 2024 marked a significant milestone in the company’s journey. As the company prepares to export fresh coconuts to China and expand its product range, it demonstrates a vision aligned with Vietnam’s growing role as a key player in the global agricultural market. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and market expansion, VIA is set to strengthen the reputation of Vietnamese coconuts worldwide.
Through its diverse product offerings and adherence to international standards, VIA stands as a leader in the coconut export industry. The company’s achievements not only boost Vietnam’s agricultural exports but also contribute to sustainable development and ethical trade practices that benefit local communities. With a promising future ahead, VIA is poised to reach new heights in the global market, promoting the finest quality Vietnamese coconut products to consumers around the world.