Ca Mau improves the quality of OCOP products to conquer the international market
VTC News•12/12/2024
(VTC News) - Enterprises in Ca Mau have begun to pay more attention to applying international standards such as Global GAP, HACCP, ISO in production and processing. Ca Mau, a land rich in natural resources and cultural traditions, is making efforts to improve the quality of products participating in the One Commune One Product (OCOP) Program to expand the market not only domestically but also internationally. With the goal of bringing OCOP products "overseas", enterprises and cooperatives in Ca Mau are constantly improving quality, innovating technology and developing standards to meet the strict requirements of the global market. Potential and strengths of Ca Mau OCOP products Ca Mau is famous for many high-quality agricultural and aquatic products, recognized as OCOP such as Rach Goc dried shrimp, U Minh honey, Ca Mau sea crab, or mudskipper. These are all products with strong development potential if properly invested and meeting international standards.
Ca Mau Shrimp is one of the brands chosen by consumers.
According to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Ca Mau, by the end of 2023, the province had more than 100 products meeting OCOP standards, of which 70% were in the agricultural sector, especially aquaculture - the province's strength. These products have been present in many large supermarkets in the country and have begun to be exported to neighboring markets such as China, Japan and Korea. In order for OCOP products to be able to "go abroad", perfecting the production process and improving product quality are key factors. Enterprises in Ca Mau have begun to focus more on applying international standards such as GlobalGAP, HACCP, ISO in production and processing. For example, Minh Phu Seafood Processing Company Limited in Ca Mau has invested millions of USD in a production line that meets export standards to demanding markets such as the EU and the US. This is one of the big steps to bring Ca Mau's OCOP products further. In addition, the province has also promoted support programs for businesses and cooperatives participating in OCOP. Through training courses and technical advice, local businesses are equipped with knowledge to improve product quality and meet international standards. According to the Department of Industry and Trade of Ca Mau province, by 2023, more than 50 businesses and cooperatives had participated in programs to improve production capacity and quality management, of which 30 businesses had achieved international standard certifications. Expanding international markets: Opportunities and challenges One of the potential markets for Ca Mau's OCOP products is Europe, where the demand for clean agricultural and aquatic products with clear origins is increasing. However, to penetrate this market, OCOP products need to overcome technical barriers regarding quality and food safety. This requires businesses to make large investments in technology and production processes, as well as comply with strict environmental regulations and protect consumer rights.
OCOP Ca Mau products.
A typical example is Ca Mau Seafood Joint Stock Company, which has achieved many certifications on quality and environmental standards from international organizations. Thanks to that, the company's frozen shrimp products have been exported to more than 20 countries, including demanding markets such as the US, EU and Japan. In 2022, Ca Mau's shrimp export turnover reached more than 1.2 billion USD, accounting for 13% of the country's total seafood export turnover, of which 40% came from OCOP products. However, not only seafood, other OCOP products of Ca Mau such as U Minh honey, organic rice and processed agricultural products also have great export potential. Markets such as the Middle East, Africa and ASEAN countries are becoming new destinations for these products. According to the Department of Industry and Trade, in 2023, Ca Mau exported more than 500 tons of organic rice to African countries, with an export value of 1.5 million USD, an increase of 20% compared to 2022. Sustainable direction for the future To successfully bring OCOP products "overseas", the Ca Mau government has issued many policies to support businesses. Accordingly, businesses participating in the OCOP program will be supported with capital, technical advice, trade promotion and connection with international partners. In 2023, the province organized more than 10 international trade fairs with the participation of OCOP businesses, creating conditions for them to meet and sign contracts with foreign partners. In addition, Ca Mau province also develops policies to encourage businesses to invest in product research and development, especially high-value organic agricultural and aquatic products. This policy not only helps businesses improve product quality but also enhances their competitiveness in the international market. Thanks to that, in 2023, the province attracted more than 200 million USD from foreign investors in the field of processing and exporting OCOP products.
Tu Hung dried fish, OCOP product of Ca Mau.
With continuous efforts to improve quality and expand markets, Ca Mau is gradually building an image of high-quality OCOP products, meeting the strict requirements of international markets. In particular, in the context of the global economy gradually recovering after the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for clean and safe agricultural and aquatic products is increasing, this is an opportunity for Ca Mau to boost exports and develop sustainably. However, to achieve long-term success, Ca Mau needs to continue investing in technical infrastructure, developing human resources and expanding international cooperation. At the same time, the province needs to focus on environmental protection and building sustainable brands for OCOP products, thereby creating a solid foundation for future development. Bringing Ca Mau OCOP products "overseas" is not only the goal of businesses but also a strategy for sustainable economic development of the province. With great potential in agriculture and aquaculture, along with strong support from the government, Ca Mau is on its way to conquering international markets, bringing high-quality, environmentally friendly products with strong local identity.
VTC News•12/12/2024
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