Kien Giang Province’s Department of Industry and Trade said that it targets reaching $660 million of exports by the end of 2018.

The first nine months saw a 35 per cent increase of exports, totalling $468 million, compared to the same period last year.

Rice exports were more than $158 million, 23.3 per cent higher than last year, while seafood exports were $155.6 million, 11 per cent higher.

Leather footwear exports were $121.3 million, 117.7 per cent higher.

The province exports to over 30 countries and territories.

Kien Giang has been improving its rice exports by connecting farmers with businesses within and outside the province to facilitate trade.

The province is also pushing for more promotional and networking opportunities, such as exhibitions, and is helping firms with problems they face in exporting and production.

The $660 million export goal is 40 per cent higher than last year’s goal.

For the last three months, the province will continue focusing on developing material sources for rice, seafood and leather footwear exports, organise more networking opportunities, and explore more foreign markets, as well as prepare for the Christmas and New Year season. – VNS