Standardize theraw material areaThis is a crucial factor in expanding agricultural exports. Therefore, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has implemented a pilot project to establish five standardized agricultural and forestry raw material zones covering nearly 170,000 hectares. After more than two years of implementation in 13 provinces, it is now possible to clearly identify areas for growing coffee, rice, fruit, or forestry raw materials that meet the standards.

Son La has been selected as a standard fruit-growing region in the North. Currently, the locality has over 82,000 hectares producing nearly 400,000 tons. Mangoes, pomelos, and custard apples are the main crops, requiring strict cultivation processes. Regarding custard apples, in the last two years, people have expanded to include new varieties such as Taiwanese pineapple custard apples, extending the harvest season from June to January of the following year.

Mr. Tran Ngoc Bang, Director of the Co Noi Agricultural Cooperative in Mai Son District, Son La Province, said: "Initially, we are focusing on organic farming and promoting the use of organic fertilizers. Once we meet the necessary conditions, we will register for Global GAP certification with the aim of exporting."

In Mai Son district alone, the raw material area has now formed 200 strong cooperatives, attracting 6 businesses to invest in processing plants. 85-90% of the fruit raw materials meet international market standards.

Ms. Nguyen Hang Nga, Director of Doveco Son La Factory, shared: “Last October, we signed a memorandum of understanding with the Son La Provincial People's Committee to continue participating in supply chains, creating transparency and fairness for both sides.”

Mr. Le Quoc Thanh, Director of the National Agricultural Extension Center, commented: “Most agencies of the Ministry have to get involved. This is a new approach; we have a project to build a team of community agricultural extension workers in this raw material area. This community agricultural extension force will closely link businesses and producers.”

Along with the standardization of agricultural products, infrastructure serving the raw material areas will also be invested in. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, nearly 100 km of roads, three pumping stations, and three warehouses with display facilities have been completed in five raw material areas. The results from the five pilot areas that have achieved standards are spreading rapidly.

The standardization of raw material areas is a goal that the agricultural sector aims to establish as a regulation for any production region. This will be the path to increasing the value of agricultural products, contributing to the goal of making Vietnam one of the top 10 agricultural processing centers in the world.

News Department