Applying technology to help Khánh Hòa's agricultural products reach further markets.

Previously, when people thought of agriculture in the highlands of Khanh Hoa, they often pictured extensive farming methods, entirely dependent on nature, with low and unstable yields. However, that picture is changing dramatically thanks to the bold application of science, technology, and digital technology by the people of these villages.

Innovating farming practices

During the period 2021-2025, the implementation of the National Target Program for socio -economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas (the Program) created a major impetus, fundamentally changing the face of agriculture in the mountainous communes of Khanh Hoa. The Raglai, Ede, and other ethnic groups have proactively applied science and technology to enrich themselves on their homeland.

Orchards in mountainous communes of Khanh Hoa province . Photo: Kim So

In communes such as Cam Hiep, Khanh Son, Tay Khanh Son, and Dong Khanh Son, known as the "capital" of high-quality fruit in the South Central region, the farming practices of local people have undergone a significant transformation. Fruit tree cultivation models now integrate organic farming practices, utilize water-saving irrigation systems, and monitor pests and diseases using smart sensors. In particular, the implementation of on-site processing and cold storage lines in some growing areas has reduced post-harvest losses by up to 30%, while simultaneously improving the quality of agricultural products.

Alongside crop cultivation, livestock farming has also made new strides. The practice of free-range grazing is gradually being replaced by a controlled farming model. According to the direction of the Department of Ethnic Minorities and Religions of Khanh Hoa province, changing the production mindset of the people is the "key" to sustainable poverty reduction. Accordingly, many households have been guided in building barns, planting grass, and providing regular vaccinations for their livestock, ensuring stable quality.

Mr. Mang Vuong in Cam Hiep commune is a living example of a transformation in farming practices. A few years ago, he boldly removed nearly 1 hectare of old, unproductive cashew trees to switch to growing mangoes using new methods. Now, his mango orchard yields tens of millions of dong per harvest. Thanks to this, he has the means to continue expanding his production and cultivation.

This is also the direction that Khanh Hoa province has actively promoted in recent times, drawing on resources from the Program. In particular, to support ethnic minority communities, Khanh Hoa province has actively collaborated with research institutes and universities to transfer advanced technologies and develop raw material areas that meet VietGAP and GlobalGAP standards. This systematic approach helps agricultural products from Khanh Hoa's mountainous regions confidently participate in the global value chain, enhancing their competitiveness in the market.

Digital transformation – the "extended arm" of mountainous agricultural products.

While science and technology help increase productivity, digital transformation is seen as a lever that helps agricultural products in Khanh Hoa quickly access markets and increase their value. Many highland localities have identified digital transformation as a key task for sustainable socio-economic development. The reality in Khanh Son commune shows that digital transformation is helping to shorten the gap between producers and consumers. Unique agricultural products such as durian, jackfruit, banana, and tea are now not only available through traders but also on e-commerce platforms and social media.

According to Le Quoc Toan, Vice Chairman of the Khanh Hoa Provincial Farmers' Association, many households began familiarizing themselves with livestreaming sales during the Covid-19 pandemic. To date, this movement has spread further thanks to the support of the Farmers' Association and other organizations. In addition, digital skills training courses have been organized, combined with practical activities, guiding farmers in creating social media accounts such as TikTok, Facebook, and Zalo to record promotional videos; skills in branding and product positioning, etc.

Selling products through social media makes it easier to sell agricultural produce.

"When farmers put their products on e-commerce platforms, they not only sell their goods but, more importantly, they grasp market signals. They learn what consumers need, which designs are popular... and from there, they adjust their production plans accordingly, avoiding the situation of a bumper harvest leading to low prices," Mr. Le Quoc Toan commented.

Digital transformation has initially helped farmers sell their products more easily, while also shifting their mindset from fragmented production to planned production that meets market demands. In particular, the application of technology and e-commerce platforms helps farmers reduce costs for premises, warehousing, and intermediaries, thereby increasing profits. According to experts, this is the path to bringing agricultural products from the mountainous regions of Khanh Hoa to larger markets, moving towards a modern and sustainable agricultural sector.

Source: https://daibieunhandan.vn/ung-dung-cong-nghe-dua-nong-san-khanh-hoa-vuon-xa-10401855.html