Chestnuts are expensive because of the technique used.

Over the years, Thanh Loa Agricultural Products Cooperative in Cao Loc commune has focused on applying scientific and technological advancements to production, successfully developing a model for planting and caring for chestnut trees according to VietGAP standards. This has gradually improved productivity, quality, and product value, contributing to increased income for its members.

Members of Thanh Loa Agricultural Products Cooperative harvest chestnuts.

In mid-September 2025, while on a work trip to Cao Loc commune, we were taken by commune officials to visit the economic model of Thanh Loa Agricultural Products Cooperative. This was also the time when the cooperative members were actively harvesting chestnuts.

Ms. Hua Thi Vu, Director of the Cooperative, said: "Since 2008, I and several households in the commune have developed a chestnut tree cultivation model. However, we mainly planted and cared for the trees using traditional methods, without focusing on applying scientific and technical advancements, resulting in low yield, quality, and value of chestnuts. Given this reality, we realized the need for a change in mindset and production methods, shifting from small-scale to integrated, concentrated production to achieve long-term effectiveness. Accordingly, in 2021, Thanh Loa Agricultural Products Cooperative was established with 7 members, focusing on developing a chestnut tree cultivation model on an area of ​​5.8 hectares. Immediately after its establishment, with guidance and support from specialized agencies and the commune government, the Cooperative focused on developing production according to VietGAP standards to gradually improve product quality."

To ensure the model's effective implementation, cooperative members were given the opportunity to participate in training courses and receive guidance on the process and techniques of planting and caring for chestnut trees according to VietGAP standards. In addition, the cooperative regularly organized meetings for members to exchange experiences in caring for, controlling pests and diseases, and harvesting chestnuts; and promoted and encouraged members to strictly adhere to the procedures during the planting and care of chestnut trees.

Mr. Hua Van Thuan, a member of the cooperative, said: "My family has been growing chestnuts since 2008 with 250 trees. However, previously, I mainly cared for them using traditional methods, so the yield and quality of the chestnuts were not high. In 2021, when I joined the cooperative, my family participated in training courses and received guidance on applying scientific and technical methods to chestnut production and care according to VietGAP standards. Since then, my family has focused on caring for the trees and noticed a 5-10% increase in yield compared to before, the chestnuts are also larger and more beautiful, and sales are easier. On average, my family harvests more than 1 ton of chestnuts each year, with a selling price ranging from 50,000 to 80,000 VND/kg, bringing in over 60 million VND after deducting expenses."

In addition to focusing on applying science and technology to production to improve productivity and product quality, the cooperative also proactively registered its chestnut product as an OCOP product and researched the design of packaging, labels, and traceability stamps. With systematic investment and guaranteed product quality, in 2022, the cooperative's chestnut product was recognized as a 3-star OCOP product.

Ms. Hua Thi Vu, Director of the Cooperative, added: "The application of science and technology and the focus on building product brands have created the foundation for the Cooperative to enhance product value, gradually develop and expand the model. From the initial 5.8 hectares of chestnut trees, the Cooperative has now increased the production area to over 7 hectares. On average, the Cooperative's annual harvest yields about 10 tons, generating revenue of over 500 million VND, providing stable income for members ranging from 60 to 100 million VND. Currently, we are entering the peak chestnut harvesting season, and the Cooperative has already harvested over 7 tons of chestnuts. This year's production is expected to increase by about 5% compared to 2024."

Mr. Duong Trung Hieu, Deputy Head of the Economic Department of Cao Loc commune, said: Thanh Loa Agricultural Products Cooperative is a typical cooperative in the commune in developing the chestnut tree cultivation model. The cooperative has effectively exploited the potential and strengths of the locality, applying scientific and technical advancements to increase product value and improve production efficiency. In the coming time, the department will continue to advise the People's Committee of the commune to promote and encourage cooperative members to maintain and expand the model; and guide the cooperative to develop production towards deep processing, bringing to the market peeled chestnuts, vacuum-packed chestnuts, etc., to meet consumer demand and further enhance product value.

Source: https://baolangson.vn/htx-nong-san-thanh-loa-ap-dung-ky-thuat-nang-tam-nong-san-dia-phuong-5059103.html