Viet Nam’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 6.23% last year, 2.25% lower than that of 2007. However, it was considered a considerable achievement during the global financial crisis, according to the General Statistics Office on Wednesday.

The office reported the 2008 production value of agricultural, forestry and fishery sector and industry and services all grew over 2007.

Although there were many difficulties in the export market, eight commodities, including rice and coffee, provided export revenues of more than US$2 billion each.

The country’s trade deficit for the year was $17.5 billion, 27.8% of export value, said the office.

The total number of production units and businesses throughout the nation last year rose to 3.9 million, an increase of 44.7% over 2003.

Many focused on the service area, including new services such as administrative services, lawyers’ offices, investment consulting, intermediary agencies and securities.

The rate of households in poverty nationwide fell by 1.3% compared with 2007.

The GSO said the Government’s eight-measure package had helped control inflation, stabilise the macro-economy and ensure social security targets.

This year, the GSO said the administrative-reform progra-mme should be promoted to help businesses develop production and raise competitiveness.

To take advantages of cheap workforce costs and materials, the GSO said that it was necessary to boost construction of social and economic infrastructure.

In particular, to cope with complex changes in the world market and minimise negative impects on the country’s economy, forecast work had to be further strengthened. (VNS)