HCMC – The HCMC People’s Council has officially granted approval for the establishment of a new Department of Food Safety in the city, the first such provincial-level agency in the country.
The decision was made during the 11th meeting of the HCMC People’s Council in the 2021-2026 tenure, which convened today, September 19.
Bui Xuan Cuong, vice chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee, emphasized the need of creating a food safety department, considering its status as a fast-growing metropolis with a large population.
Cuong explained that, following a six-year pilot program, the Food Safety Management Board of the city has made significant achievements in ensuring the safety of food supply in HCMC.
This model has brought together officials from three key departments – Health, Industry and Trade, and Agriculture and Rural Development – to effectively oversee and manage food safety in the city.
However, he noted that certain limitations in authority have impeded the board’s ability to operate at full efficiency.
The establishment of the city’s food safety department is part of the key measures outlined in accordance with the National Assembly’s Resolution 98, which provides special mechanisms and policies for HCMC’s development.
With this new regulatory framework, the meeting of the HCMC People’s Council, described as a historic session, will address a wide range of matters, including around 100 submissions on specific mechanisms, policies, and projects aimed at fostering the city’s growth.
