Arabfields, Meriem Senouci, Correspondent, Hanoï, Vietnam — Authorities in Vietnam’s central province of Quang Ngai are seeking to strengthen cooperation between farmers, agricultural cooperatives and businesses as they push for more sustainable production, reliable markets and greater use of digital technology.
The provincial government recently held a dialogue with farmers and local organisations to discuss ways to expand agricultural supply areas, improve production links and ensure more stable outlets for farm products. The discussions reflect a broader effort to move beyond small-scale production towards value chains that connect cultivation, processing and distribution.
Agriculture, forestry and fisheries generated more than 19.5 trillion Vietnamese dong during the first nine months of 2026, accounting for nearly 16% of the provincial economy, according to local agricultural authorities.
As of September 30, the province had 742 cooperatives, including 535 operating in agriculture. Quang Ngai also counted 535 certified OCOP products, a national programme promoting distinctive local goods, across 280 producers and organisations.
One example of the partnership model is Sao Mai Agricultural Products Processing Joint Stock Company, which has worked with seven communes to plant around 30 hectares of pineapple. The company wants to expand its growing areas through further cooperation with the provincial Farmers’ Association, including technical support and purchasing arrangements based on market prices.
Such agreements can help farmers gain access to production expertise and more predictable buyers, while giving processors a steadier supply of raw materials. However, their long-term success depends on transparent pricing, consistent quality and commitments that remain viable when market conditions change.
Farmers in other sectors are also seeking practical assistance. Representatives from Ya Ly commune raised concerns about difficulties selling black catfish when the fish reach harvesting size. They called for better market connections and support for production methods aligned with VietGAP standards, organic practices, biosecurity and traceability requirements.
Provincial leaders have identified several persistent obstacles, including fragmented production, unstable markets and limited adoption of advanced technology. Land access, financing, branding and digital transformation were also among the issues raised during the dialogue.
The province’s Farmer Support Fund has disbursed more than 22.4 billion dong to 31 projects, providing loans to 277 households seeking to develop their production activities.
Looking ahead, Quang Ngai’s ability to build durable partnerships between producers and businesses will be important to turning agricultural output into higher-value products and more reliable rural incomes. Expanding supply areas and improving traceability could also help local producers meet increasingly demanding market requirements.
The challenge will be ensuring that cooperation translates into lasting commercial benefits for farmers, rather than remaining limited to short-term projects. Stronger market access, practical technical support and clear purchasing arrangements are likely to be central to the province’s next stage of agricultural development.
