Speaking at a science and technology conference on livestock and veterinary development on March 28, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Phung Duc Tien warned that uncontrolled antibiotic use in animal farming could lead to serious consequences, including the spread of antibiotic resistance from animals to humans.

According to the Deputy Minister, Vietnam’s agricultural sector has faced multiple challenges in recent years, ranging from the lingering impacts of COVID-19 to natural disasters and increasingly evident climate change. Global geopolitical instability, including the Russia - Ukraine conflict and trade tensions among major economies, has further complicated the landscape.

Despite these pressures, agriculture has maintained steady growth and continued to act as a stabilizing pillar of the economy. In 2025, the sector recorded solid performance, contributing significantly to inflation control and macroeconomic balance.

The livestock industry in particular has shown stable growth, expanding by approximately 4.5 percent and surpassing set targets. Vietnam’s animal population remains large, with poultry nearing 600 million and pig herds reaching around 31 million.

Productivity and efficiency have improved markedly, driven by the application of science and technology. Advances have been recorded in breeding technologies approaching global standards, as well as in biotechnology, microbiology and gene editing. The country has also made progress in vaccine production, including vaccines for African swine fever, and in developing closed production chains to ensure food safety.

However, alongside these achievements, the misuse of antibiotics is emerging as a serious concern. The widespread and often uncontrolled use of antibiotics in both livestock farming and daily life is creating significant risks.

“Antibiotic resistance is becoming a pressing issue that must be addressed with urgency. It does not only occur in animals but can spread to humans, leading to serious health consequences and worsening resistance,” the Deputy Minister emphasized.

He stressed that science and technology must play a central role not only in improving productivity but also in ensuring food safety and controlling biological risks. This includes stricter management of antibiotic use and stronger biosecurity measures across the sector.

The Deputy Minister also noted that financial resources for science and technology are not lacking. The key challenge lies in effective implementation, with a focus on generating practical, applicable outcomes. He called for a shift in research approaches, moving away from fragmented projects toward larger, integrated programs aligned with real industry needs and market demands.

As Vietnam positions its livestock sector for greener and more sustainable growth, controlling antibiotic use will be critical to safeguarding both public health and the country’s agricultural competitiveness.

Vu Diep