Background

B&Company is embarking on an important initiative in collaboration with the Long An Provincial People’s Committee to enhance economic ties and attract Japanese investment to Long An Province. This project is pivotal in implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in July 2023 between Long An and Ibaraki Prefecture, which aims to deepen cooperation across various sectors.

Historically, the partnership between Long An and Ibaraki has focused primarily on labor exchange. However, the recent MOU broadens this collaboration to encompass a wider range of fields, including agriculture, technology, and industrial development. This shift reflects a mutual commitment to fostering comprehensive partnerships that can drive sustainable growth and innovation.

The primary goals of this initiative are to facilitate knowledge transfer, share best practices, and leverage technological advancements from Japan, particularly in high-tech agriculture. Long An, known for its agricultural potential, seeks to modernize its farming practices and improve productivity through collaboration with Ibaraki, which is recognized for its expertise in innovative agricultural techniques.

As part of the initiative, a business trip to Japan for the Long An delegation was organized in early April 2025. This trip aims to facilitate in-depth discussions in Ibaraki, focusing on comprehensive partnerships in agriculture and industry, particularly in high-tech agriculture. Mr. Ohta Shigemasa (Chairman) and Mr. Tsuno Monotori (Senior Advisor) from B&Company accompanied the delegation to provide expert guidance.

(1) Courtesy meeting and lunch with the Governor of Ibaraki Prefecture, along with Ibaraki Prefecture officials

On April 3rd, the delegation, led by Mr. Nguyen Van Ut, Chairman of the Long An Provincial People’s Committee, met with Mr. Kazuhiko Oigawa, Governor of Ibaraki Prefecture. This courtesy meeting reinforced diplomatic ties between Long An and Ibaraki.

Following the meeting, the Long An delegation participated in a lunch with Ibaraki officials, facilitating open dialogue about mutual interests and paving the way for future discussions.

(2) Agricultural Learning and Cooperation

Site visit a high-tech agricultural model: Grandberry Daichi 

On the morning of April 2nd, the Long An delegation visited Grandberry Daichi, a leading high-tech strawberry farm in Ibaraki. This visit showcased innovative agricultural practices, emphasizing the integration of technology and tourism in sustainable farming.

Delegates explored advanced cultivation techniques and engaged with the farm’s management, gaining insights into operational strategies that enhance strawberry production. This experience underscored the potential for agricultural development in Long An.

Consultation Meeting with the Agricultural Association of Ibaraki (JA)

In the afternoon of that day, there was a consultation meeting with the Agricultural Association of Ibaraki (JA) at Ibaraki Youth Hall. The session featured introductions from both sides. A representative from the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Long An Province shared insights into the province’s agricultural development goals and the desire for cooperation in this sector. This was complemented by a presentation from a Long An agricultural enterprise.

JA representatives then discussed the agricultural landscape of Ibaraki, sharing successful models and cooperation experiences with Vietnamese provinces. The session allowed for experience exchange and Q&A. The meeting was wrapped up with a summary and contact exchange.

Meeting and Site Visit at Ibaraki Prefecture Agricultural Center

Another highlight of the trip was a visit to the Ibaraki Prefecture Agricultural Center. Here, the delegation engaged with agricultural experts and researchers on innovative practices and research initiatives.

The site visit provided insights into the latest advancements in agricultural technology and research being conducted in Ibaraki. The discussions centered on agricultural research, technology transfer, and capacity building for farmers in Long An. The delegate left with valuable knowledge and ideas that could be leveraged to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability in Vietnam.

(3) Other Networking and Collaboration Activities: Conference with JETRO Ibaraki, Vietnam-Ibaraki Friendship Association, and Member Enterprises

This session commenced on April 2nd, featuring greetings and introductions from both delegations. The Chairman of the Long An Provincial People’s Committee delivered a speech, highlighting the province’s investment opportunities and incentives, accompanied by a short promotional video.

Following this, representatives from JETRO Ibaraki provided insights into the region’s industrial development, while members of the Vietnam-Ibaraki Friendship Association shared their activities and expectations for collaboration with Long An.

The session included a Q&A segment where association representatives and Long An delegates engaged in meaningful dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of potential partnerships.

Conclusion

The insights gained by B&Company from this trip will inform our strategic plans to support sustainable agricultural development and strengthen relations between Long An and Ibaraki.