Vietnam Launches First Export of Low-Emission Rice to Japan

Vietnam is taking a bold step in sustainable agriculture by exporting its first-ever batch of low-emission rice to Japan this June. This shipment is not only a milestone for Vietnam’s rice industry but also a significant indicator of the country's growing commitment to climate-smart agricultural practices and high-value export markets.

Official Debut of “Green and Low-Emission Vietnamese Rice”

On June 5, Vietnam will officially introduce its new rice brand “Green and Low-Emission Vietnamese Rice” into the international market, with Japan being the first destination. This marks a pivotal achievement under the ambitious One Million Hectare High-Quality, Low-Emission Rice Project set for completion by 2030. The initiative focuses on transforming rice cultivation in the Mekong Delta, aligning it with global green growth strategies.

According to Bùi Bá Bổng, Chairman of the Vietnam Rice Industry Association (VIETRISA), this event is a key turning point in building a premium Vietnamese rice brand for environmentally conscious markets. “This is more than a commercial label. It’s a commitment to sustainable practices and social responsibility,” he emphasized.

Towards Traceable and Transparent Supply Chains

To ensure authenticity and environmental integrity, VIETRISA with the support of the TRVC Project has granted certification rights to seven enterprises. These businesses are now authorized to use the “Green and Low-Emission Vietnamese Rice” trademark, covering an initial export volume of 19,200 metric tons.

Among them, Trung An Company, in strategic partnership with Japan’s MURASE Group, will lead the way as the first exporter under the new brand. This partnership symbolizes a deepening of trade relations and mutual commitment to sustainable development between Vietnam and Japan.

In the absence of a national certification system for low-carbon rice, companies are currently self-declaring their green claims under tight scrutiny. VIETRISA ensures that certified rice complies with strict standards, including traceability of origin, crop variety, and farming season. Furthermore, all production activities must meet protocols issued by the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection.

Sustainability that Delivers Value to Rice Exports

Over the last two years, the One Million Hectare project has yielded measurable benefits for two core stakeholders: farmers and the rice grain itself. It aims to balance several critical objectives:

• Enhancing national food security

• Boosting farmer income

• Protecting natural ecosystems

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions

• Preserving rice export competitiveness

Lê Thanh Tùng, Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of VIETRISA, shared that a Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system is being piloted to quantify the environmental performance of rice production. However, the full mechanism including carbon credit payments and valuation will not be fully operational until 2028.

Despite that, enterprises can now begin adopting the green rice certification system laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and market leadership.

Logistics Insight: Ensuring Smooth Cross-Border Shipping

As international demand for eco-friendly agricultural products grows, efficient and compliant logistics solutions become essential. At Worldcraft Logistics, we support businesses looking to export or import sustainable goods by providing end-to-end logistics services that include:

• Freight forwarding

• Customs brokerage

• Documentation support

• Cold chain and containerized shipping

• Compliance consulting for agro-based products

If you’re a U.S. distributor or business interested in importing rice from Vietnam, our team can guide you through every regulatory and logistical step ensuring your goods arrive on time, intact, and fully compliant with U.S. import standards.

👉 How to Import Rice to the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Worldcraft Logistics' Perspective

This strategic move by Vietnam signals a promising new chapter in the country's agricultural export narrative. As the global market increasingly prioritizes sustainability, low-emission rice positions Vietnam as a key player in green trade. At Worldcraft Logistics, we recognize the growing demand for climate-responsible supply chains and are committed to helping our partners achieve both logistical efficiency and sustainability goals.

For importers, this is not just about rice, it's about embracing a future where green logistics and responsible sourcing go hand in hand.

*This article has been edited and adapted to align with the interests and informational needs of Worldcraft Logistics readers.