Dong Thap: Popularizing National Standards for Frozen Durian

(DTO) On the morning of December 11, the Vietnam Standards and Quality Institute (VSQI), in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), held a conference to disseminate the National Standards (TCVN) for frozen durian, with the participation of delegates from provincial departments, agencies, experts, and enterprises in Dong Thap and neighboring areas.

At the event, a UNIDO representative emphasized the crucial role of standards and quality for Vietnamese agricultural products in the context of international integration. Durian is a product with rapid growth and strong export potential. Therefore, diversifying product categories and uniformly applying technical standards and quality management for frozen durian is essential for ensuring food safety, sensory quality, and product consistency.

According to UNIDO, through the Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP), it has worked with regulatory bodies and enterprises to support the development, completion, and dissemination of standards; training; the establishment of procedures and demonstration models; and technical assistance along the value chain, particularly for small and medium enterprises.

UNIDO also highlighted the connection between standards, technological innovation, and sustainable development. Applying the TCVN for frozen durian, linked with post-harvest management, the cold chain, and sustainable packaging, will help reduce losses and food waste, enhance product value, and make direct contributions to sustainable development goals.

At the conference, participants were presented with the amended Law on Standards and Technical Regulations and the National Standards (TCVN) for fruit, the content of the draft National Standard TCVN 14579:2005 on frozen durian, and the content of the draft National Standard TCVN 14580:2005 on the Code of Practice for processing frozen durian.

The event also provided a platform for delegates to discuss solutions for standard application, share implementation experiences, and hear recommendations from experts and enterprises. UNIDO acknowledged the efforts of the VSQI in working with specialized agencies and the business community to develop and refine the TCVN for frozen durian, ensuring it meets management requirements and the practical needs of production, processing, and export.

UNIDO reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its cooperation with Vietnam to promote a standards-based and quality ecosystem linked with innovation, contributing to the development of a modern and sustainable agricultural sector.

By LY OANH
(Translated by ANH DUC)