Ta Van Tuong, deputy director of the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development pointed out problems that he believes are hindering the development of the agricultural economy in the north at a recent workshop.

He said in the integrated market economy, farmers are put at a disadvantageous position and have to rely on the traditional market. Therefore, in the future, they will even face bigger difficulties once modern trade modes develop. If farmers cannot change the way of production, they will be weeded out of the game.

There are many specialties in every locality in the country, but they still have not been fully exploited. Recently, state agencies have called to develop large-scale production.

Meanwhile, Vietnam’s local specialties are favored by foreign consumers and many can be registered for national brands.

Vietnam has a rich and healthy cuisine, beautiful landscapes and friendly people. Those are strengths when integrating internationally. 

Tuong believes that farmers need to participate more in promoting historical, cultural values and regional characteristics. Hanoi has included this issue when planning city development. 

Do Ngoc Nam, chair of the Quang Ninh Farmer Association, said it is necessary to focus on promoting farm produce consumption in the domestic market. When demand is high, supply is not enough, and when supply is plentiful, demand is weak.

“Vietnam has a population of 100 million, and it is an extremely important market for farmers,” he said.

Vo Van Thuan, chair of the Cu Chi district Farmers Association, said that it would be ideal if farmers, the state and scientists can coordinate to help farmers sell their products, thus making farmers feel secure to organize production.

Farmers often plant crops and raise animals, which results in oversupply and farmers regularly have to call on the government to help ‘rescue’ unsold farm produce.

Thuan also asked state agencies to draw up a master development plan with long-term visions about the market for farmers to consider and decide what they should farm. For example, it is necessary to describe how urban agriculture will develop in the next five years in the context of shrinkage of agricultural land.

Tam An