From "gem" of the homeland to national heritage

Over its 100-year journey, the salt-making profession in Bac Lieu has been intertwined with countless ups and downs. So many drops of sweat and tears have been shed during those bitter salt-making seasons! But the more difficult and uncertain the situation, the more determined the people are to cling to their land and preserve their profession.

Over its 100-year journey, Bac Lieu's salt-making industry has been intertwined with countless ups and downs. So much sweat and tears have been shed during those bitter salt-making seasons! But the more difficult and uncertain the situation, the more determined the people are to cling to their land and preserve their craft. To rise from being a "gem" of their homeland to a National Intangible Cultural Heritage as it is today, the value of salt-making lies not only in its production process and the salty yet sweet aftertaste of the famous Ba Thac salt, but also in the unwavering loyalty between people and the land, and between people and their craft.

Provincial Party Secretary Lu Van Hung presented the Certificate of Recognition from the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, recognizing the "Salt-making craft in Bac Lieu" as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, to the People's Committees of Dong Hai and Hoa Binh districts.

Bac Lieu province organized a festival to honor the salt-making profession, aiming to elevate the value of salt.

The traditional salt production process involves many steps performed under the scorching sun and pouring rain. Throughout this process, salt farmers must "watch the sky, the wind, and the clouds," and then, at harvest time, they must monitor the price. For many years, these salt farmers, loyal to the traditional salt-making profession, have lived in hardship and difficulty, with unstable incomes, unable to escape the vicious cycle of "good harvest - low prices, poor harvest - high prices." But despite the hardships, the salt farmers remain committed to their craft.

Salt fields during harvest season.

Producing those pristine white salt crystals requires a great deal of effort from the salt farmers.

Salt from the fields is brought to the processing plant.

Salt-based products and dishes prepared with salt are popular among consumers.

Looking back over a century, Bac Lieu salt has become increasingly intertwined with the land and its people, an indispensable part of the homeland's flavor. With its unique historical and cultural values, along with its reputation for delicious salt, the salt-making craft in Bac Lieu has shone brightly, becoming a National Cultural Heritage. A simple yet sparkling heritage, reflecting the dedication and devotion of generations of hardworking people.

The central government has invested in upgrading the infrastructure serving salt production and consumption.

With pride and a desire to elevate the status of salt, the Vietnam Salt Craft Festival - Bac Lieu 2025 will be the starting point for salt to reach a bright future for the craft and its people.

PHUONG ANH - SONG NGUYEN (compiled)

Source: https://baocamau.vn/tu-hat-ngoc-que-huong-den-di-san-quoc-gia-a41468.html