The future of potato farming in Hanoi looks promising as the city embarks on an ambitious project to develop large-scale, high-yield potato cultivation zones. This initiative, part of the city’s broader agricultural development strategy, focuses on creating concentrated potato farming regions in Me Linh and Soc Son districts. By adopting new technologies, fostering partnerships, and offering financial and technical support to farmers, Hanoi aims to enhance the productivity and sustainability of its agricultural sector, particularly in the winter crop season.
In line with Resolution No. 08/2023/NQ-HĐND, the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has introduced policies designed to support local farmers. These policies are aimed at easing the financial burden and procedural hurdles associated with expanding winter crop areas, particularly for potatoes. Additionally, the city is encouraging local cooperatives and farmers to access resources and funding to scale up their operations, thus fostering a more modern and sustainable urban agriculture model.
A key initiative in this effort is the establishment of demonstration models featuring new high-yield potato varieties, including the Atlantic variety. In 2024, the Hanoi Agricultural Extension Center plans to implement a 30-hectare demonstration project in Me Linh and Soc Son, where farmers will be provided with 50% of the necessary seeds, fertilizers, and materials. The Atlantic variety, known for its round, uniform, smooth texture and high dry matter content, is particularly suited for industrial processing. Early results suggest that this variety has the potential to yield 21 tons per hectare, with over 85% of the harvested potatoes falling into the highest quality category. The expected revenue per hectare is impressive, with potential earnings of up to 180 million VND, resulting in a profit of over 80 million VND per hectare after expenses.
The adoption of mechanized farming techniques is also playing a critical role in simplifying potato cultivation. Through the use of modern machinery, such as drones for spraying pesticides and automated systems for planting and harvesting, the process has become more efficient and less labor-intensive. This technological integration allows farmers to focus on other aspects of crop management while ensuring optimal productivity.
The success of the Atlantic potato model has already prompted local agricultural leaders to consider expanding its use. The model’s effectiveness in boosting yield and profitability compared to other winter crops like corn and soybeans is clear. The potato’s ability to grow during the off-season, when there is less competition from other crops, makes it a highly attractive option for farmers seeking to diversify and increase their income. Furthermore, the utilization of crop residues—such as potato stems and leaves—helps maintain soil fertility, benefiting subsequent rice crops in the spring.
Hanoi’s ongoing efforts to integrate urban farming with high-tech agriculture and tourism experiences are also gaining traction. The city’s approach combines agriculture with eco-tourism, offering a unique opportunity for both local communities and visitors to engage with farming processes and the broader agricultural economy. This holistic approach not only boosts food production but also enhances the overall economic value of agricultural ventures in the region.
The development of high-yield, concentrated potato farming zones in Hanoi represents a significant step toward sustainable agriculture in the region. By leveraging modern farming technologies, introducing high-quality potato varieties, and providing strong institutional support, the city is creating a model for economic growth and food security. The success of the Atlantic variety and the mechanization of farming processes are clear indicators that this initiative has the potential to revolutionize potato farming, benefiting both farmers and the local economy. As Hanoi continues to refine and expand this model, it may set a valuable precedent for other regions looking to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
