In recent years, Duc Linh district has been at the forefront of agricultural transformation in Vietnam, blending traditional practices with innovative methods. One standout model is the Tien Phat Safe Vegetable Cooperative in Vu Hoa commune. Since its founding in 2019, Tien Phat has led the way in high-tech hydroponic vegetable farming, a model that promises both high yield and environmental sustainability. The cooperative’s mission is to produce high-quality vegetables without the use of pesticides, thereby meeting VietGAP (Vietnam Good Agricultural Practices) and OCOP (One Commune One Product) standards for food safety and sustainability.
Growth and Expansion
Initially, Tien Phat Cooperative started with a modest 300-square-meter plot, experimenting with hydroponic techniques for leafy greens, herbs, and other vegetables. As the results became clear, both in yield and quality, the cooperative expanded to nearly 2,000 square meters, cultivating lettuce, mustard greens, herbs, and other nutrient-rich vegetables. This expansion has allowed Tien Phat to increase production significantly, growing from a few dozen tons annually to a target of 200 tons per year.
The cooperative’s vegetables are now supplied to local supermarkets, retail chains such as Bach Hoa Xanh, and the kitchens of various companies, making safe, high-quality produce accessible to consumers across and beyond the district. Tien Phat’s produce has gained popularity among consumers, ensuring stable demand and generating consistent revenue for cooperative members, who now earn an average monthly income of 7-9 million VND.
Advantages of Hydroponic Farming
Hydroponic farming offers several key benefits, especially in mountainous regions like Duc Linh. The water-efficient system uses nutrient-rich solutions in place of soil, reducing water consumption and eliminating the need for harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. This method yields up to 30% higher production than traditional farming, offering fresh, pesticide-free produce that meets the growing demand for safe, organic food.
In addition to environmental benefits, hydroponic systems allow for efficient space utilization, making them ideal for farmers with limited land. The Tien Phat Cooperative’s approach has proven economically advantageous as well, providing its members with a higher income compared to traditional crops. The cooperative’s hydroponic model is also gaining recognition for its OCOP-certified products, which are poised to reach new markets through local trade shows and exhibitions, supported by the Duc Linh district government.
Support and Expansion Efforts
Recognizing the potential of hydroponic farming for sustainable local development, the Duc Linh People’s Committee has joined forces with provincial agencies, including the Provincial Cooperative Alliance and the Rural Development Branch, to promote knowledge sharing and provide training. Cooperative leaders and local officials participate in workshops to strengthen market understanding and management skills, aiming to make Duc Linh a leader in high-tech, sustainable agriculture.
Duc Linh’s strategy also includes supporting cooperatives in brand building and traceability, helping Tien Phat and other cooperatives register barcodes to verify product origins. This initiative is part of the government’s “One Commune One Product” program, which aims to develop regional specialties with high value and quality. Across the district, eight cooperatives, each with certified OCOP products, now grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as durian, melons, green grapefruit, and cashews.
The Tien Phat Cooperative’s success in hydroponic vegetable farming represents a promising new direction for agriculture in Duc Linh. Through high-tech farming, the cooperative not only meets the rising demand for safe, organic food but also creates stable, higher-income opportunities for local farmers. As Duc Linh district continues to support and expand this model, hydroponic farming is set to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable economic growth, enabling the region to become a leader in Vietnam’s safe and high-tech agriculture.
