Vietnam’s agriculture sector faces mounting challenges—climate change, resource depletion, and fluctuating market demands. However, a groundbreaking partnership between PepsiCo, Syngenta, USAID-Resonance, CAREVN, and Vietnam’s National Agricultural Extension Center is proving that sustainable potato farming can boost productivity, cut costs, and reduce environmental harm.
From 400 to 1,700 Hectares: A Model of Success
Launched in 2019 in the Central Highlands, the project initially covered 400 hectares. Today, it spans nearly 1,700 hectares, with average yields reaching 30-34 tons per hectare—far exceeding traditional farming methods.
Encouraged by this success, the partners expanded the model to Northern provinces (Thanh Hóa, Hải Dương, Thái Bình, Bắc Ninh) in the 2024-2025 winter-spring crop, covering 320 hectares. Early results are impressive:
- Yield increase: 23-26 tons/ha (up 8 tons vs. traditional farming).
- Water savings: Precision irrigation cut water use by 3,170 m³ per hectare.
- Pesticide reduction: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) slashed spray cycles by half, while drone spraying reduced water-mixed pesticide use by 90%.
Farmer Testimonials: Higher Profits, Lower Risks
- Mr. Đoàn Trường Vinh (Thái Bình) harvested 25 tons/ha, earning ~100 million VND/ha profit.
- Mr. Đỗ Xuân Hiển (Bắc Ninh) achieved 28 tons/ha, crediting digital water management and modern fertilization.
- Mr. Doãn Thế Ánh (Bắc Ninh) reported 36-40 tons/ha, with 30-40% higher profits despite higher initial costs.
Why This Model Works
- Technology Adoption: Drones, precision irrigation, and digital tools optimize inputs.
- Farmer Training: Hands-on coaching ensures proper implementation.
- Market Linkages: PepsiCo’s offtake agreements guarantee stable income for farmers.
Reducing Vietnam’s Potato Import Dependency
Vietnam currently imports 60-70% of its potato demand, spending $134 million in 2023 (leading Asia-Pacific imports). This project aims to:
- Strengthen domestic supply chains ahead of PepsiCo’s new Hà Nam processing plant.
- Support Vietnam’s Food Innovation Hub (FIH-V), promoting green agriculture.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Agri-Business
PepsiCo and Syngenta’s model demonstrates that sustainability and profitability can coexist. By merging advanced agri-tech, farmer empowerment, and corporate partnerships, Vietnam can reduce import reliance, cut emissions, and improve rural livelihoods.
