Building new era for Hanoi's agriculture and rural development
Building new era for Hanoi's agriculture and rural development
Hanoi's farmers are transforming themselves into leaders in sustainable agriculture and global markets.
As Vietnam embarks on a new chapter of national growth, Hanoi's farmers are being called upon to adapt and innovate, embracing opportunities in digital transformation, sustainable agriculture, and global markets.
At the 2024 Dialogue with Hanoi's farmers, chaired by Hanoi Mayor Tran Sy Thanh, the city outlined its vision for enabling the agricultural sector to thrive in an era of modernization and international integration.
The Presidium of the conference. Photos: The Hanoi Times |
Over the past two years, Hanoi has made significant progress in agricultural development. Programs to encourage excellence in agriculture have inspired more than 326,000 households to adopt innovative practices, while more than 251,700 farmers have received training in areas such as high-tech agriculture, market analysis, and legal rights. These efforts have strengthened the foundation for sustainable growth while fostering collaboration among farmers through cooperative groups and supply chains, which now number 792 and 27, respectively.
Economic milestones further underscore Hanoi's agricultural transformation. In 2023, the value of the city's agricultural exports exceeded $1 billion for the first time, a figure expected to rise in 2024. Beyond agricultural products, Hanoi's craft villages, including Bat Trang and Van Phuc, have gained international recognition as part of the World Craft Village Network, offering new opportunities for cultural and economic exchange.
Pham Hai Hoa, Chairwoman of the Hanoi Farmers Association, presents a report at the conference. |
Despite these successes, Hanoi's agricultural sector faces persistent challenges. Production remains fragmented, and digital tools have yet to be widely adopted. Support for collaboration and market access is insufficient, leaving farmers struggling to scale their efforts. At the dialogue, representatives from the Hanoi Farmers' Association put forward 35 key concerns of farmers, ranging from land use policies to environmental management. The city responded by reaffirming its commitment to address these issues through clearer policies and improved support systems.
Chairman Tran Sy Thanh laid out a bold vision for Hanoi's farmers, emphasizing the need to focus on international consumers, not just local markets. He challenged farmers to "dream big and act big," urging them to adopt innovative practices and embrace the vast potential of international trade. By 2030, the city aims to position itself as a leader in clean agriculture, focusing on sustainable practices that protect land, water, and air quality. This strategy will be underpinned by certified production methods, creating a distinctive "Made in Hanoi" brand that guarantees both quality and global recognition.
The chairman also emphasized the importance of storytelling as a critical component of agricultural branding. Farmers, he said, must "breathe life" into their products by creating compelling narratives that resonate with consumers. This approach not only increases the market value of Hanoi's goods but also reinforces its cultural identity.
Looking ahead, the city has pledged to develop strategic agricultural zoning plans to balance supply and demand while preventing market oversaturation. By 2030, welfare programs such as universal health insurance and retirement benefits are expected to raise farmers' living standards. These measures are in line with Hanoi's larger modernization agenda, which aims to make farming a sustainable and dignified career.
Overview of the discussion session. |
Chairman Thanh emphasized that while the government will play a supportive role, the ultimate responsibility for change lies with the farmers themselves. He called on every farmer in Hanoi to be aware of their unique position and to embrace change with courage and creativity. "Every farmer in Hanoi must understand their role in shaping the capital's agricultural identity - through bold thinking, sustainable practices, and a commitment to excellence," he said.
Hanoi’s farmers stand at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. With the right vision and leadership, they have the potential to redefine agriculture, not only for the city but as a model for the nation and beyond. The ability of Hanoi's agriculture to innovate, adapt, and lead will define its future and ensure that its legacy endures in a rapidly changing world.
As Hanoi moves toward its 2030 goals, collaboration between the government, farmers, and private stakeholders will be essential. Investments in infrastructure, research, and technology must complement the city's vision for clean agriculture and sustainable rural development. Furthermore, fostering partnerships with international markets and leveraging global best practices will be key to raising Hanoi's agricultural standards. With their rich traditions and resilience, Hanoi's farmers are uniquely positioned to take advantage of these opportunities. By embracing a mindset of growth and innovation, they can ensure that Hanoi's agriculture not only thrives domestically but becomes a global beacon of excellence in sustainable agriculture and rural transformation.
Hanoi's journey to redefine its agricultural sector reflects a broader national effort to reconcile tradition and modernity. The city's leaders envision farmers not just as participants in the local economy, but as vital contributors to Vietnam's global standing in agriculture and craftsmanship.
With a focus on sustainable practices, technological innovation, and strong market positioning, Hanoi is poised to become a hub for high-value agricultural exports and cultural preservation. This transformation will not only better the lives of farmers, but also set a precedent for rural development across Vietnam, proving that bold vision, coupled with collective effort, can drive extraordinary progress.
Part of the city's rural area. |
