Cao Phong is flourishing.

Cao Phong commune (comprising Cao Phong town, Hop Phong commune, and the former Thu Phong commune) is blessed with a mild climate and fertile land. Building upon the foundation of the old Cao Phong agricultural farm, the local people have long been associated with citrus fruit cultivation, especially oranges. In recent years, Cao Phong has undergone a significant transformation: from small-scale production to concentrated cultivation areas, and from traditional farming methods to the application of science and technology.

The entire commune has approximately 1,000 hectares of citrus fruit trees, covering 100% of the hamlets. Many families have become millionaires and billionaires thanks to oranges. Notably, the area of production according to VietGAP standards is increasing, opening up opportunities for Cao Phong oranges to conquer not only the domestic market but also the world . Since 2023, the first shipments of oranges have arrived in the UK - something few people would have thought possible just a few years ago.

The orange orchards in Cao Phong are laden with fruit.

Ms. Bui Thi Mai, residing in sub-district 4, shared: “My family has switched our production area to VietGAP standards for the past two years. Last season, although the initial investment costs were higher, the quality of the oranges improved significantly, the appearance was better, the fruit was sweeter, and most importantly, we sold them at a good price. VietGAP oranges are much easier to sell; regular customers come directly to the orchard to buy them, sometimes even placing orders in advance. This year, I believe the yield will be even better, although I'm still worried about the unstable market. But I think clean production is the trend; as long as we follow the correct techniques, the product will be well-received by the market.”

Nevertheless, the development of citrus fruit cultivation in Cao Phong still faces many difficulties. Post-harvest preservation, processing, and packaging remain fragmented and small-scale. Production-consumption linkages are not yet robust; production infrastructure is not synchronized with the expanding cultivated area. Farmers still have to fend for themselves in the market, lacking professional purchasing and distribution "leaders." This is why the added value of citrus fruits has not met expectations and poses potential risks regarding prices.

Mr. Nguyen Van Hoa, a long-time orange grower, shared: "The hardest part of growing oranges is selling them. Some years we have a good harvest but the price is low, and it's heartbreaking to see the whole orchard empty. I hope the government and businesses will have more policies and purchasing channels so that farmers can produce with peace of mind."

According to the leaders of Cao Phong commune People's Committee, the locality is implementing many strategic solutions such as replanting citrus fruit trees according to VietGAP and organic standards; encouraging businesses to invest in production linkages; and forming a closed value chain from planting and caring to consumption and processing. The goal is for the majority of orange growers to join cooperatives or businesses; 100% of the cultivated area to be certified for food safety, with more than 85% meeting the standards.

Furthermore, Cao Phong also focuses on researching and breeding new varieties of oranges – those with fewer seeds, that ripen at different times, and are adapted to climate change – to not only ensure a good harvest and higher prices but also maintain the brand, protect the environment, and safeguard public health.

Cao Phong is not only a fruit-growing region but also a land rich in cultural diversity. The area also boasts the Dragon Head Mountain cave complex – a national-level scenic site that attracts tourists. Among its attractions, Mung village is a popular eco-tourism destination, drawing thousands of visitors to Cao Phong, the "land of wind," to check in at the colorful flower hills, enjoy the fresh, cool air, and experience the unique cultural identity. This harmonious blend opens up opportunities for agricultural development linked to eco-tourism, adding value to each orange harvest season.

Cao Phong is facing a great opportunity to become a major citrus-growing region with products meeting international standards. If you have the chance to visit Cao Phong this season, when the hills are laden with ripe oranges ready for harvest, you will understand why this place is called a land of sweetness – not only because of the sweet taste of the oranges but also because of its never-ending desire for change.

Hong Duyen

Source: https://baophutho.vn/cao-phong-khoi-sac-237888.htm