Hanoi, November 20, 2024
The SAFEGRO project, in collaboration with Vietnam Food Safety Authority (MOH) and the NAFIQMP (MARD), has launched the first in a series of workshops focusing on Canada’s Food Safety Investigation and Recall Process. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance Vietnam’s food safety systems through knowledge sharing and cross-agency coordination.
The workshop brought together over 100 representatives from 31 northern provinces of Vietnam, including government officials working in food safety within the sectors of health, agriculture and rural development, and industry and trade. This diverse group highlights the critical need for multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing food safety challenges and improving standards across the country.
Highlights of the Opening Ceremony
Ms. Stéphanie Cyr, First Secretary for Development at the Canadian Embassy in Vietnam, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s food safety efforts. She stated:
“At today’s training, Canada is pleased to share its experience, aligned with international best practices, for investigations and recalls. This includes our proven Food Incident Outbreak Response Protocol (FIORP), which serves as an exemplary model for Vietnam to consider. Trainers from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), with their extensive firsthand experience, will engage with you to exchange insights on investigation techniques, recall processes, and cross-agency coordination.”
The opening ceremony highlighted the contributions of two esteemed Vietnamese leaders in food safety: Mr. Phạm Văn Duy, Deputy Director General of the National Agro-Forestry-Fishery Quality, Processing, and Market Development Authority (NAFIQPM, MARD), and Mr. Nguyễn Hùng Long, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam Food Safety Authority (VFA, MOH).
In his remarks, Mr. Nguyễn Hùng Long praised the SAFEGRO project for its significant role in supporting the Ministry of Health’s initiatives and driving advancements in Vietnam’s food safety standards, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in achieving these goals.
Workshop Objectives and Impact
Spanning 1.5 days, the workshop combined presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on exercises led by experts from Canada and Vietnam. Participants explored best practices for managing food safety incidents, including investigation techniques, recall implementation processes, and strategies for effective cross-agency coordination. These activities aim to provide actionable insights and frameworks to strengthen Vietnam’s food safety systems.
As an outcome of the SAFEGRO project, this exchange is expected to provide valuable input to Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to refine its food safety investigations, recall procedures, and cross-agency collaboration. The insights and frameworks shared during the workshop will also support the revision and implementation of a comprehensive food safety law, addressing critical elements such as foodborne disease outbreak investigation, reporting, and recall mechanisms.
Looking Ahead
This workshop marks the first step in a long-term commitment to improving food safety in Vietnam. The series will continue with a second workshop in Vung Tau City next week. These efforts underscore the importance of a robust, risk-based national food control system supported by science-based regulations and strong enforcement mechanisms.
By fostering international collaboration and capacity building, the SAFEGRO project is helping Vietnam move closer to its goal of protecting consumers from preventable food safety hazards and aligning its practices with global standards.
