Three pillars of developing the coconut industry to adapt to climate change

Vinh Long To develop the coconut industry sustainably and achieve the target area of ​​about 132,000 hectares by 2030, Vinh Long province has deployed a comprehensive adaptation strategy in the new period.

Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Vinh Long Van Huu Hue said that the province has identified coconut as a key crop, which has long been associated with farmers and is the main source of income for a part of the local population. It is estimated that by the end of 2025, the whole province will have 120,000 hectares, with a total production value of coconut trees of about 11,000 billion VND, contributing to the development of livelihoods, increasing income and improving the lives of nearly 270,000 households in the province.

In recent times, Vinh Long has implemented many solutions to encourage the development of the coconut value chain. In particular, focusing on building models for transferring scientific and technical advances, supporting investment in coconut planting, renovating ineffective coconut gardens, developing intercropping models in coconut gardens, developing coconut processing industry and organizing scientific seminars on coconut tree development, calling on businesses to invest in product consumption, focusing on developing coconut trees in an organic direction associated with granting planting area codes to serve domestic consumption and export.

Embryo cultured wax coconut variety of Tra Vinh University. Photo: Thanh Bach.

According to Mr. Van Huu Hue, production is currently fragmented; the proportion of coconut acreage participating in production linkages is low, reaching about 30%. Furthermore, although coconut trees adapt well to climate change, they are still affected by climate change, reducing yield, reducing fruit weight, and causing many pests and diseases. In addition, the coconut industry in Vinh Long has been facing serious challenges caused by climate change from: lack of fresh water and drought, high tides, saltwater intrusion, pests and diseases...

From there, Mr. Van Huu Hue said that in the coming time, Vinh Long will focus its strategy on three main pillars, which are: Developing sustainable coconut material areas that adapt to climate change; Promoting deep processing; Strengthening management and linkages along the value chain.

Specifically, the province will develop specialized areas for organic coconut cultivation that meet international standards, build and strictly manage growing area codes associated with processing and consumption. Strengthen research, selection and replication of high-quality coconut varieties that are resistant to salinity and drought. Develop and apply emission-reducing cultivation processes and advanced water-saving irrigation techniques.

Maintain and develop natural enemy breeding rooms; invest in early warning systems and biological pest and disease management processes, and protect the ecological environment of coconut gardens. Build demonstration models of coconut cultivation adapted to climate change; coconut cultivation adapted to climate change on wetlands, etc. Provide training on technical transfer as well as replicate the model in communes where coconut is grown.

In addition, build mechanisms and preferential policies to invite large enterprises to invest in modern deep processing technology to increase product value and competitiveness in the export market. Focus on developing high-value products from coconut, making the most of all parts of the coconut tree towards the goal of zero waste. Apply 4.0 technology in quality management, traceability and trade promotion.

At the same time, support the construction of new cooperatives that operate effectively, closely linked with businesses through production and consumption contracts, ensuring benefits for coconut growers. Strengthen trade promotion, build and protect the Vinh Long Coconut brand, especially for organic coconut deep-processed products in the international market...

“The Department of Agriculture and Environment of Vinh Long will proactively accompany people and businesses to effectively implement these strategies, aiming to develop the province's coconut industry sustainably, flexibly adapt to climate change and affirm its position as the coconut capital of the country,” Mr. Van Huu Hue shared.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/ba-tru-cot-phat-trien-nganh-dua-thich-ung-bien-doi-khi-hau-d784085.html