Hanoi is actively pursuing the expansion of winter potato farming with a focus on large-scale, high-yield cultivation in the Me Linh and Soc Son districts. The city is implementing a comprehensive agricultural strategy under Resolution No. 08/2023/NQ-HĐND, which includes a wide array of policies aimed at supporting farmers. These initiatives focus on easing access to financing, providing technical assistance, and ensuring smooth implementation of agricultural programs to boost productivity and economic stability for local farmers.
At the heart of this development is the winter potato cultivation model, particularly using the Atlantic potato variety. Farmers participating in the program receive support from the Hanoi Agricultural Extension Center, which covers 50% of the costs for seeds, fertilizers, and materials. These farmers benefit from close monitoring by agricultural services to ensure all supplies meet the required standards and are delivered on time for optimal planting conditions. Early evaluations from the Me Linh Agricultural Services Center show that the Atlantic potato variety is yielding high economic returns, with an estimated yield of 21 tons per hectare. Around 85-90% of the potatoes are classified as top-quality, with average revenues ranging from 170 to 180 million VND per hectare, yielding a profit of over 80 million VND per hectare after expenses.
This variety of potato, known for its round, uniform shape, smooth surface, and high dry matter content, is especially suited for industrial processing, which facilitates easy market integration. Furthermore, the use of mechanized farming methods, including automated planting, fertilizing, and harvesting systems, makes it easier for farmers to manage their crops while maintaining high yields and reducing labor costs.
The program’s success has been enhanced by partnerships with local enterprises. Specifically, in Tự Lập (Me Linh), a company has signed contracts to purchase all of the Atlantic potatoes grown under the program, offering prices between 6,000 and 8,600 VND per kilogram. This contract ensures that farmers do not face the typical risks of market price fluctuations, such as oversupply leading to a drop in prices.
Hanoi’s agricultural development model has already proven to be highly effective, with noticeable improvements in the yield and income of farmers. The city has also emphasized the importance of expanding agricultural production by integrating higher-value crops like potatoes, which complement the existing rice cultivation cycle and improve the economic value of land.
Looking ahead, Hanoi’s agriculture department is working to introduce additional crops such as the Julinka potato into the city’s agricultural structure. By enhancing the availability of quality seeds and supporting farmers with the tools needed for efficient production, the government aims to foster a more diversified, resilient, and profitable agricultural sector.
In line with global trends in high-tech agriculture, urban farming, and agri-tourism, Hanoi is also exploring new ways to integrate tourism with agriculture. This approach is designed to create more business opportunities and encourage investments in the sector, thus contributing to the region’s sustainable agricultural development.
Hanoi’s focus on winter potato farming in Me Linh and Soc Son districts highlights the city’s commitment to increasing agricultural productivity, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and promoting sustainable farming practices. By embracing modern agricultural techniques, fostering industry partnerships, and ensuring market stability, Hanoi is setting a model for agricultural development that other regions can follow. The success of the Atlantic potato variety and the robust support systems for farmers offer a promising future for the city’s agricultural economy, making it a key player in Vietnam’s evolving farming landscape.
