U.S.-Vietnam ethanol MOU aims to support partnerships between countries

In Vietnam, the U.S. Grains Council and Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade signed a memorandum of understanding on expanding the use and availability of ethanol in Vietnam. The agreement promises to further a strong partnership between the two nations and encourage expanded ethanol use throughout Southeast Asia.

The MOU was signed during the 2020 Indo-Pacific Business Forum, which took place virtually and in-person in Hanoi, Vietnam. This year’s forum was aimed at advancing a vision for the Indo-Pacific region as a free and open region comprised of independent, strong and prosperous nations. Hosted by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, the event is part of overall efforts to establish the United States as an essential and enduring partner to Southeast Asia.

During the event, the Council also participated in a panel discussion promoting an ethanol strategy for Southeast Asia. The panel included technical discussion on global ethanol production and the challenges and opportunities of developing effective policy and regulatory frameworks to support fuel standards that incorporate ethanol.

The ethanol MOU was one part of the series of 2021 strategic initiatives unveiled during the event intended to deepen economic ties through projects in the energy, transportation and healthcare sectors.