Vietnam's Mekong Delta farmers embrace greener rice with record profits
Farmers in Vietnam's Mekong Delta are shifting to greener rice production under a major government-backed scheme. The programme, launched in late 2023, has already exceeded its initial land targets while cutting costs and boosting profits for growers.
In November 2023, Vietnam's government approved the Sustainable Development of One Million Hectares of High-Quality and Low-Emission Rice project. By the 2024-25 season, the scheme had expanded to 354,839 hectares—nearly double the original goal of 180,000 hectares. Farmers involved in the project now use methods that lower emissions, raise yields, and protect natural resources.
Key changes include more efficient irrigation, reducing water use by 20%. Fields are drained two or three times during growth, cutting unnecessary consumption. Pilot models have also slashed seed use by 45%, fertiliser by 30%, and pesticide applications by two to three sprays per crop. These adjustments have lowered production costs by 40% while increasing rice yields by 12% on average. The project has delivered financial benefits too. Farmers earn an extra VNĐ6 million (US$228) per hectare per crop compared with traditional methods. Emissions have also fallen by three to four tonnes of carbon dioxide per hectare per crop. International partners are playing a role in the region. The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) supports model farms and new technologies at Tien Thuan Cooperative in Cần Thơ. Meanwhile, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) collaborates with Can Tho University on climate-smart rice research.
The programme has already surpassed its early land targets and reduced farming costs. With higher yields, lower emissions, and increased profits, the scheme aims to expand further across the Mekong Delta. Farmers continue adopting methods that balance productivity with environmental protection.
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