The low, flat delta areas of the south are a vast checkerboard of rice paddies. Vietnam straddles several climatic zones, with the north experiencing cool, continental-type winters, the central region suffering summertime typhoons, and the tropical south experiencing even temperatures throughout the year. Population Vietnam has a population of 76 million people from approximately 60 different ethnic groups. Although Vietnamese is the sole official language, some French, Chinese, English, Khmer, and Malayo-Polynesian are spoken in different areas. The most prominent religions are Buddhism, Taoism, and Catholicism.
Fish are plentiful and include numerous varieties of saltwater fish, lobster, and other shellfish.
Vietnam possesses many natural resources, such as rich deposits of coal for export. Although its economy is growing at a moderate rate, Vietnam is among the world's poorest countries. Food reserves are inadequate and poorly distributed. For more information on Vietnam, see the Vietnam Web pages, produced by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. Development challenges and strategies Strengthening the capacity of Vietnamese central agencies and institutions Enhancing the ability of public-sector institutions to use environmental criteria when formulating and analyzing policies and programs Integrating social and gender considerations into public policies and programs Improving the capacity of the poor and helping them to help themselves Establishing legal and regulatory structures to develop the private sector Supporting Vietnam's economic and social reforms Improving access to social services Promoting good governance, greater respect for human rights, and the emergence of a civil society For more information, see the Canadian assistance page.