Ho Chi Minh City decentralizes certification of fragrant rice exports

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has directed local departments and authorities to swiftly implement a decentralized system for issuing export certificates for fragrant rice to the European Union and the United Kingdom. Vice Chairman Bui Minh Thanh signed Official Document No. 7062/UBND-DT outlining the city's decentralized management of the certification process.

The Department of Agriculture and Environment has been tasked with quickly assigning personnel and preparing facilities to receive, process, and issue certificates verifying the export of fragrant rice varieties to the EU and the UK. This service will be offered at the city's Public Administrative Service Center, following established regulations.

The department must also ensure timely application processing and prevent any delays, bottlenecks, or difficulties for exporters. The municipal Department of Agriculture and Environment will collaborate with central government agencies, especially the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, to promptly update technical guidance and enhance oversight.

Authorities have been instructed to identify and strictly penalize violations, such as fraudulent declarations of fragrant rice varieties or misuse of the decentralized certification mechanism for personal gain. The Department of Industry and Trade is responsible for intensifying inspections and supervision of rice export businesses to ensure compliance with regulations, coordinating with relevant agencies to quickly detect and address violations.

Commune, ward, and special-zone people's committees are instructed to collaborate with the two departments to educate rice producers, households, and cooperatives on complying with standards for fragrant rice varieties. Local authorities must proactively monitor, detect, and report suspected violations or fraudulent activities within their jurisdictions.