The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) should draw up specific plans of action to effectively carry out its development strategies to meet the country’s requirements for development at present and in future, said Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh.

During a working session with MoIT officials on March 18, the Party leader praised the ministry’s marked achievements in recent times, especially in light of the fact that it was created through the merger of two separate ministries in July 2007. The trade sector has overcome obstacles and achieved high growth, with industrial production last year fetching VND663.7 billion — 1.6 times the figure for 2005 — and exports reaching US$63 billion — double the 2005’s figure.

Mr Manh noted that the sector has expanded its goods distribution network, especially for essential consumer goods, thus stabilising market prices and ensuring social welfare. It has also promoted international economic relations, helping raise Vietnam’s position globally.

He also acknowledged the ministry’s efforts to carry out the campaign of “Studying the late President Ho Chi Minh’s moral examples” with a focus on practising thrift, preventing waste and combating corruption.

Mr Manh analysed difficulties and challenges facing Vietnam and the ministry in 2009 and asked it to put in place the Party and Government’s resolutions aimed at preventing the national economy from trending downward and maintaining a relatively reasonable growth rate.

According to the Party leader, the MoIT manages many key sectors that play an important role in the process of production, development, circulation and consumption of goods, market management and import-export activities. Notably, it manages 16 State economic groups and corporations and implements the country’s long-term and strategic plans.

“The ministry should coordinate closely with other ministries, agencies and localities as well as international organisations and countries to fulfil its tasks, “ said Mr Manh.

He asked the MoIT to train a contingent of competent personnel to meet its requirements for immediate and long-term development.

VietNamNet/VOV