Tra Vinh province, Vietnam, has set a lofty target for its total agricultural production value for 2024. With a goal of reaching VND 32,245 billion (USD 1.32 billion), representing a substantial increase of nearly VND 1,200 billion (USD 49.13 million) compared to the previous year, the province is embracing a strategy centered around robust investment and the application of cutting-edge science and technology. This concerted effort aims to foster advanced production techniques and cultivate a high-value agricultural product chain.

Embracing Technological Advancements in Agriculture

According to a recent report by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Tra Vinh province, the region boasts impressive figures in both tree planting and aquaculture. With an average annual tree planting area of approximately 255,000 hectares and over 60,500 hectares dedicated to aquaculture, including rice cultivation and aquaculture in brackish saline areas, Tra Vinh’s agricultural landscape is a vital contributor to the industry’s overall production value. Moreover, these sectors are experiencing a significant infusion of investment aimed at propelling rapid and sustainable development through the application of science and technology.

By the end of 2023, Tra Vinh province anticipates having nearly 29,760 hectares of agricultural production land equipped with high technology. These advancements encompass various techniques, including semi-automatic sprinkler technology, net house technology, hydroponics, and adherence to internationally recognized standards such as VietGAP, GlobalGAP, and ASC certification. Notably, these modern production models have demonstrated exceptional productivity, improved product quality, and enhanced economic efficiency for corporations, with yields for farmer households surpassing conventional methods by 3 to 10 times.

Yield Enhancements Across Various Agricultural Sectors

Incorporating high technology and innovative techniques has yielded promising results across multiple agricultural domains in Tra Vinh province. Noteworthy achievements include an average rice yield of 6.5 tons per hectare, a 1-ton increase compared to traditional methods, and a 10-15% supply value boost in vegetable production achieved through net house technology and spray irrigation. Additionally, advancements in fruit orchard management, particularly in wax coconut cultivation, have led to a substantial increase in wax fruit rates. In aquaculture, the adoption of high-tech super-intensive shrimp farming methods has propelled average output to 40-50 tons per hectare per crop, significantly surpassing traditional farming practices.

Recognizing the significance of aquaculture, particularly in brackish and salty water areas, Tra Vinh province has prioritized the development of its shrimp farming industry. With a current shrimp farming area of approximately 25,000 hectares, including over 11,000 hectares dedicated to high-tech intensive and super-intensive shrimp farming, the province is strategically positioned to capitalize on its marine economic potential. To further propel shrimp farming in a progressive and sustainable direction, Tra Vinh aims to increase the total farming area to 28,000 hectares by 2030, with a comprehensive plan focused on infrastructure development, production capacity enhancement, and investment incentives.

Cultivating the Tra Vinh Shrimp Brand

In a bid to enhance the region’s reputation and market competitiveness, Tra Vinh province has embarked on a project to establish and promote the Tra Vinh Shrimp brand. With an allocated budget of nearly VND 545 million (USD 22.31 thousand) for science and technology funding, the project aims to secure protection and certification for the brand, encompassing a range of shrimp products. Additionally, efforts are underway to develop a robust management framework and brand identity system to effectively promote and elevate the brand, thereby contributing to the sustainable development and value chain enhancement of the aquaculture and seafood processing industries.