This is the first time Vietnam has hosted the prestigious international event, which has been held in rotation across Asian nations for more than a decade.

The OAC is an annual forum that brings policymakers, scientists, experts, businesses and development organizations in the organic agriculture sector across the region and the world together. Under the theme “Organics for a Better Future,” this year’s congress focuses on three key areas: policy, markets and organic farming practices.

In a congratulatory message, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Phung Duc Tien highlighted that over the past 14 years, the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association has served as a crucial bridge between the global organic movement and Vietnam. He stressed that the OAC offers a valuable opportunity to promote Vietnamese organic products, boost international integration, and reaffirm the country’s commitment to green, clean and sustainable agriculture.

Ha Phuc Mich, Doctor of Science and President of the Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association said while Vietnam has identified organic farming as an inevitable trend, the sector remains in its early stage. He underscored that OAC 2025 provides a vital platform to connect, exchange knowledge and strengthen capacity for stronger growth.

Mathew John, President of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) – Organics Asia, emphasized that consumer awareness of the environmental and health benefits of organic agriculture is rising sharply, particularly amid severe climate change.

He expressed hope that the congress would deepen understanding of organic development in Vietnam and boost new forms of cooperation to help local products reach regional and global markets. He affirmed that IFOAM–Organics Asia will continue to play a connecting role, linking organic products made in one Asian country or region with others across Asia and beyond, thereby boosting trade in organic products.

From the host’s perspective, Tran Anh Dung, Vice Chairman of the Ninh Binh Provincial People’s Committee, said hosting the OAC is a major honor for the province. He described it as the first international organic agriculture event organized in Vietnam, marking an important milestone in integration, while also providing Ninh Binh with a platform to promote its heritage, natural beauty and potential for developing green, organic agriculture alongside sustainable tourism.

Over its three-day event, the congress will feature plenary sessions alongside a seven-day international organic trade fair with 250 booths which is being held at the Ninh Binh Provincial Sports Training and Competition Center, aimed at boosting trade and promoting Vietnamese organic products globally.

Notably, delegates from China, India’s Sikkim state, Bhutan, the Philippines and Japan shared their successful organic farming policies and models, which are expected to offer practical insights for Vietnam in improving policy, developing markets and responding to climate change.

Notably, delegates from China, India’s Sikkim state, Bhutan, the Philippines and Japan will share successful policies and organic farming models from their localities. These experiences are expected to offer practical insights for Vietnam in refining policy, developing markets and responding to climate change.

With the strong participation of international organizations, scientists, businesses and local authorities, the 8th Organic Asia Congress is expected to serve as a vital bridge for deeper integration of Vietnam’s organic agriculture with the region and the wider world.

Source: VOV