The shipment marks a major bilateral trade milestone, unlocking new market opportunities for European agri-food exporters.
The first official shipment of pork products from the Czech Republic to Vietnam arrived at Tan Vu Port in Hai Phong on July 21, 2026. The event marked a new stage in trade relations between the two countries.
The container originated from the Kostelecké Uzeniny meat-processing plant under AGROFERT Group. A welcoming ceremony was held with representatives from AGROFERT Group in Vietnam, government agencies, and partner businesses.
Jaroslav Zukerstein, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Czech Embassy in Vietnam, described the arrival as the outcome of years of negotiations. He noted that the process required regulatory approvals and strict veterinary compliance between Czech and Vietnamese authorities. The shipment reflects growing confidence in Czech food safety and quality standards.
He added that the Czech Republic will continue using economic diplomacy tools, such as Projects to Support Economic Diplomacy (PROPED), to boost sector-specific cooperation in agri-food, processing technology, energy, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.
David Malý, Director of Animalco under AGROFERT Group, emphasized Vietnam’s rigorous food safety requirements. He highlighted the Czech Republic’s success in controlling African swine fever, ensuring exported products meet global standards.
AGROFERT Group operates in 21 countries with nearly 29,000 employees and an annual revenue of around USD 9.11 billion (USD 1: EUR 1.14). In Vietnam, the group works with strategic partners to promote reciprocal trade—supplying European-standard food products while bringing Vietnamese agricultural items to Europe.
Truong Dinh Tung, Director of Ha Long Foods Import Export Co Ltd, the official importer, said the partnership offers Vietnamese consumers products with clear origins and strict quality control. He added that it also strengthens bilateral trade ties.
Hoang Minh Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Hai Phong People’s Committee, noted that Hai Phong’s selection as the entry point demonstrates international confidence in the city’s seaport infrastructure and logistics capabilities.
This breakthrough also aligns with the elevation of Vietnam-Czech ties to a Strategic Partnership in early 2025, and follows a successful Hai Phong investment promotion mission to the Czech Republic later that year.
Industry observers note that Vietnam’s expanding middle class and growing demand for premium, traceable meat products create opportunities that extend beyond pork producers to meat processors, cold chain operators, feed companies, packaging manufacturers, and food technology providers.
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