Action points: Spices Taskforce meeting

The taskforce agrees with the key focuses/vision 2020 proposed by IDH, with some notices as follows:

– On the development of spices NSC, it’s necessary to involve more technical experts, including good farmers organizations who have practical experiences of pepper production in to the expert group. Pepper Center of MARD, WASI should be deeply involved. Grow Asia can co-fund in communication of the NSC.

– The taskforce is pleased to see the proposal to develop the Pepper Coordination Board for Vietnam based on the core of current spices taskforce.

– On pepper event for the sector:

o Apart from the outlook conference organized currently, it is necessary to organize annual event to showcase positive examples of pepper in Vietnam for improving the visibility and reputation of Vietnam pepper product, with clear and tangible results and progress shown to the world traders.

o Learning workshop for sustainable projects of companies and public sector should be organized. Prior to that, taskforce will gather with key projects to consolidate ideas before the organization

– On the information system of the sector:

o The taskforce proposes to develop a business model for best sustainable pepper farm in Vietnam, based on that the key indicators will be collected into a database for measuring progress

o ID system for pepper farms should be piloted at small scale. This can be consulted with Fresh Studio who has developed this for fruit and vegetable sector

– On members of the taskforce: it is important to involve VPA as a co-chair of the taskforce. PSAV/IDH will follow up with ICD to send official letter to VPA

– On financing of the 2020 priorities/vision: based on private sector contribution, IDH can co-fund up to 40% of total budget. The contribution is requested to all members of the taskforce

– Next steps:

o IDH will develop the vision/priorities for 2020 in to a full document, including budget and then share with taskforce

o Taskforce members comments and finalize, and commit budget contribution to implement the vision

o PSAV will follow up with ICD/MARD to invite VPA in to taskforce