Pineapples are processed by workers at Dong Giao Food Import-Export Co. Agricultural processors should develop their local distribution systems and not just focus on exports if they wish to develop sustainably. — VNA/VNS Photo Huy HungAgricultural processors should develop their local distribution systems and not just focus on exports if they wish to develop sustainably, said an official at the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT).

Ho Thi Kim Thoa, deputy minister of industry and trade, said the domestic market for farming goods and services in 2011 showed a year-on-year increase of 24.3 per cent and reached VND2,004 trillion (US$95.4 million).

She said that if processors only focused on exports and did not expand their share of the local market they would be vulnerable to global downturns. Meanwhile, she said, foreign firms had expanded their market share in Viet Nam.

Thoa cited the example of Viet Tien Garment, Nha Be Garment, Garment 10, Biti's Footwear and Vinamilk that had successfully boosted their share of the local market.

However, numerous processors of farming products have faced difficulties developing their share of the local market.

Manh Quan Dong, director of Phuong Dong Export Vegetable and Fruit Company in the northern province of Bac Giang, said his company had encountered many challenges in the local market.

Dong said his company was based far from Ha Noi and other key economic centres with high consumption levels, which meant transport costs were high.

Tran Hong Duc, director of Bac Giang Export Farming and Food Processing Factory, said many processors had limited capital and struggled to meet the costs of warehouse fees.

Tran Thi Hong Hoa, from Ha Noi Trading Company (Hapro), said that the supermarket chain set high quality standards on the products it sold, which many domestic producers could not meet. She also said it was essential to have a trademark.

Thoa said local firms needed to invest in a distribution system and promote themselves better.

She added that the ministry had organised meetings between suppliers and retailers such Hapro and Saigon Co.op to help sell their products.

Source: VNS