The first National Conference on Livestock and Veterinary Science and Technology is expected to serve not only as a large-scale scientific forum but also as a platform to strengthen links between research and production, promote digital transformation, modernize livestock production systems, and improve disease control and biosecurity.
On March 23, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment held a press briefing to announce the conference, which is scheduled to take place on March 27–28, 2026 at the National Convention Center in Hanoi.
National conference to focus on science-driven development of livestock sector
Speaking at the briefing, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien stressed that as Viet Nam accelerates agricultural restructuring and promotes a green and circular economy, science and technology are key to increasing added value and ensuring the sustainability of the livestock sector. He said the conference is expected to lay a foundation for advancing Viet Nam’s livestock and veterinary sector toward modernization and international integration.
Highlighting the sector’s role, he noted that Viet Nam maintains a large livestock population, including around 31 million pigs, more than 500 million poultry, about 2 million buffalo, over 6 million cattle, and approximately 2.8 million goats and sheep. The sector not only meets food demand for nearly 100 million people and about 20 million tourist arrivals annually, but also holds significant growth potential in the coming years.
Nguyen Van Long, Director of the Department of Science and Technology, said the conference will feature a plenary session on the morning of March 28 to review the 2021–2025 period and outline strategic directions through 2030. Six thematic sessions scheduled for the same day will cover key areas including pig, poultry and ruminant production technologies; animal health; vaccines and veterinary biological products; antimicrobial resistance; and food safety.
Discussions are expected to address key bottlenecks in the sector, ranging from breeding quality and production technologies to disease control, governance capacity, and digital transformation, with a view to proposing solutions to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
The sessions will also focus on practical applications, including recommendations to refine policy mechanisms, set priorities for science and technology programs, and promote innovation and digital transformation across the sector. Outcomes from the conference are expected to help shape the development of a modern, biosecure, sustainable livestock and veterinary sector that is resilient to climate change.
In addition to the thematic sessions, a science and technology exhibition featuring around 20 booths will showcase new products, technologies, and solutions in the livestock and veterinary sector. Participating organizations are expected to include TH Group, De Heus, Hung Nhon, BAF Vietnam, GreenFeed, C.P. Vietnam, Vinamilk, Hanvet, and VMC Vietnam, along with research institutes, universities, and science and technology organizations. The exhibition is expected to serve as a platform linking scientific research with market applications.
Sector targets modernization, biosecurity and reduced import dependence
According to Phan Quang Minh, Deputy Director General of the Department of Animal Health and Production, the livestock and veterinary sector has identified several major priorities for 2026–2030 to enhance production capacity and competitiveness. A top priority is the development of high-quality animal breeds, with the goal of mastering core technologies and gradually reducing reliance on imports.
The sector will also focus on innovation in animal feed production and nutrition to reduce input costs and improve efficiency. Developing sustainable livestock production based on circular economy principles and environmental protection remains a long-term direction.
Disease prevention and control will continue to be a central focus, with efforts to advance vaccine development and build more modern, proactive disease surveillance systems. At the same time, controlling antimicrobial resistance, ensuring food safety, and strengthening traceability are seen as cross-cutting requirements.
The sector will step up digital transformation, develop integrated databases, and apply technology in management and operations. It will also strengthen linkages among regulators, scientists, and businesses to create synergies for development.
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After one year of implementing Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has completed a large volume of tasks related to science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation, with no overdue assignments. At a review conference held on December 23, participants assessed initial results while highlighting key challenges and priorities for the next phase, as the focus shifts from task completion to generating tangible impacts for governance, production, and livelihoods.
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