US Atlantic Potatoes Take Root in Vietnamese Mountains, Yielding Millions in Profit Per Plot

A pilot project introducing the US-bred Atlantic potato variety in Nga My commune (Nghe An province, Vietnam) has delivered promising initial results, offering a new path for sustainable livelihoods in mountainous regions. According to experts from the Vietnam Institute of Science and Technology, the variety has demonstrated strong adaptability to local climate and soil conditions, producing large, smooth-skinned tubers with a short growing cycle of just over 90 days. The model, implemented across 3 hectares in Ban Bay with 27 participating households, has achieved an average yield of approximately 9 quintals per sao (360 m²), generating revenues of 6–8 million VND per sao—a significant boost for local farmers.

What sets this initiative apart is its integrated value-chain approach, linking farmers directly with enterprises that guarantee output purchase. This security has eased farmers’ concerns about market access, encouraging them to adopt commercial farming practices. While some households still face challenges with technical compliance, resulting in uneven product quality and occasional cracking or pest damage, experts are actively providing training on proper care and disease prevention for upcoming seasons. Local authorities, including Party Secretary Mr. Lo Thanh Nhat, view the model as a key step toward crop diversification and poverty reduction, with plans to expand acreage if yields remain stable. The partnership ensures farmers receive seeds and materials support while businesses secure a reliable raw material zone, creating a win-win scenario that positions Atlantic potatoes as a future staple crop for the region.