Discussing solutions to promote sustainable banana production development.

(CTO) - Bananas are currently among the 14 key fruit crops and also among the most important export fruits of our country. The potential for banana export development is still very large, and the export value of bananas could reach 1 billion USD in the near future. However, the development of the banana industry still faces many challenges, especially Panama disease.

Purchasing bananas at a banana processing facility in Can Tho City.

On December 13th, the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MARD), in collaboration with the Fruit and Vegetable Research Institute and the MARD Newspaper, organized a forum on "Solutions for controlling banana wilt disease." The forum was held in Ho Chi Minh City and connected online with over 200 locations nationwide.

At the forum, many delegates argued that for the banana industry to thrive, it must effectively control banana wilt disease (Panama disease). To prevent and control this disease, relevant agencies need to focus on disseminating information and guiding farmers to use disease-free and disease-resistant varieties. Growers need to apply comprehensive solutions in banana management, care, and harvesting; and implement good hygiene and disinfection practices to limit disease spread. To ensure sustainable development of the banana industry and enhance product value, many delegates also suggested strengthening value chain linkages, increasing the development of deep processing, and promoting the expansion of export markets.

Delegates attending the forum.

Currently, Vietnam has over 160,000 hectares of various banana plantations, with an annual production of approximately 3 million tons. Bananas are among the 14 key fruit crops and are also one of the most important export fruits of our country. Vietnam's banana exports have increased from US$179.3 million in 2019 to nearly US$380 million in 2024, making Vietnam the 9th largest banana exporter globally. The potential for banana export growth remains enormous, and the export value could reach US$1 billion in the near future. However, the development of the banana industry still faces many challenges, especially Panama disease.

Panama disease is very dangerous, can appear on many different banana varieties, spreads rapidly, and causes significant damage. The disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum sp. cubense and can occur at any stage of banana plant growth. Currently, many countries around the world are intensifying research, selection, and development of tissue-cultured banana varieties and banana varieties resistant to Panama disease.

Text and photos: KHANH TRUNG

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/ban-giai-phap-thuc-day-phat-trien-san-xuat-chuoi-ben-vung-a195400.html