The second Vietnam Rice Festival ended on November 11 in the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang, affirming the important role agriculture, farmers and rural areas play in the Vietnamese economy.

The four-day event attracted hundreds of agricultural experts, scientists, managers and leaders of ministries, agencies and universities, as well as representatives from businesses across the country.

Discussions were focused on seeking ways to boost sustainable development in the agriculture sector, develop the Vietnamese rice trademark and honour outstanding individuals and organizations who made great contributions to ensuring food security and boosting rice exports.

Nguyen Trung Hieu, Chairman of the Soc Trang provincial People’s Committee, emphasized that the festival illustrated the high quality of Vietnamese rice and affirmed the vital role of the agricultural sector. The success of the event was attributed to the close, effective cooperation and links among Vietnamese rice producers that have met the expectations of millions farmers across the country, he said.

Visitors to the festival had an opportunity to obtain updated information on agricultural machinery, high-quality seeds, and the latest scientific and technological advances in the sector.

Farmers also shared experiences in agricultural production at the event while businesses had the chance to seek partners and investment opportunities.

The festival’s organization board presented trophies to honour 21 rice producers and exporters.