Vietnam Hosts First International Logistics Expo
Vietnam recently held its first international logistics exhibition, which attracted 250 enterprises. The event underscores the region's growing ambition to become a central hub for agricultural and food commodity logistics. Such exhibitions provide a platform for exporters to find new buyers, logistics partners, and market intelligence.
- Vietnam's government has approved a national logistics strategy aiming for 12-15% annual sector growth through 2035, with a goal to reduce logistics costs from 18-20% of GDP down to 12-15%. The strategy includes developing at least five modern, international-standard logistics hubs to strengthen its role in global supply chains. - India, the world's largest rice exporter, lifted its export ban on non-basmati white rice in late 2024 and on 100% broken rice in March 2025, causing global prices to drop. This policy shift led to a 38-45% price decline for 5% broken rice from both Vietnam and Thailand. - As a counter-strategy, Vietnam is focusing on premium markets and sustainable production, signing a long-term agreement with Singapore for low-carbon rice exports and securing a five-year supply deal with the Philippines. This positions Vietnam as a stable supplier of high-quality rice, distinct from India's focus on lower-grade markets. - European importers face stringent regulations, including the EU's Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides, which are among the strictest in the world. Furthermore, a new safeguard mechanism effective January 1, 2027, will trigger higher tariffs on rice imports from Asia if volumes exceed historical levels, aiming to protect EU growers. - Demand in the European rice market, valued at over USD 765 million, is shifting towards premium and specialty varieties, with the aromatic rice segment (including Thai Jasmine) projected to be the fastest-growing. [35,
