The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) portion of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has opened a new office in Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi.
The office will facilitate agricultural trade between the two countries and help the US expand its $2.5billion dollar agricultural export market in Vietnam.
“Vietnam is one of the fastest growing global markets for US farm and food products, currently ranking at our 11th largest customer,” said Ted McKinney, undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs.
“With this increase in trade comes increased pest and disease risk, and our in-country expertise will ensure the safest trade possible, while still providing greater options for U.S. consumers,” said USDA undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs, Greg Ibach.
“Having an APHIS office in the heart of Hanoi will not only help maintain existing markets, but foster new opportunities for American farmers,” he added.
The office was opened by US ambassador to Vietnam, Daniel Kritenbrink; APHIS deputy administrator, Cheryle Blakely; and Vietnam’s vice minister of agriculture and rural development, Tran Thanh Nam.
