Transforming Rice Production in the Mekong Delta

Vietnam is embarking on a transformative journey to cultivate one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice in the Mekong Delta by 2030. This ambitious project, officially titled “Sustainable Development of 1 million hectares of high quality rice cultivation and low emissions associated with green growth in the Mekong delta for 2030”, aims to revolutionize rice production through sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology.

IRRI’s Pivotal Role: Technical Expertise and innovation

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is playing a crucial role as the key technical partner, collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture and Habitat and local authorities. IRRI is instrumental in developing and implementing the technical processes required for high-quality,low-emission rice cultivation across the Mekong Delta region.

Beyond technical guidance, IRRI is also supporting the development and piloting of a robust Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system. This system is designed to meticulously track and measure the effectiveness of emission reduction strategies, ensuring accountability and progress towards sustainability goals. This is particularly critically important as global pressure mounts to reduce agricultural emissions, which currently account for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. according to the Environmental Protection Agency, agriculture contributed 11% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021.

Pilot Programs: Testing the Waters of sustainable Rice Farming

Since 2024, IRRI has spearheaded the implementation of seven pilot programs across the provinces of kien Giang, Can Tho, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, and Dong Thap. Each pilot spans 50 hectares and focuses on key areas such as:

• Training in advanced cultivation techniques for the 1 million-hectare project.
• Improving efficiency and minimizing emissions through methods like alternate wetting and drying with sensor-based water level monitoring.
• Implementing precision sowing techniques, including row sowing combined with fertilizer placement.
• promoting responsible fertilization practices.
• Adopting integrated pest management strategies.
• Exploring circular agriculture approaches for harvesting and managing rice straw.

circular Economy: Turning Straw into Gold

A key component of the project involves establishing a circular economy model that utilizes post-harvest rice straw. This innovative approach not only boosts farmers’ incomes but also contributes to environmental protection by reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.Mrs. Nguyen thi Thu Huong, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Production and Plant Protection, emphasized IRRI’s support in developing these circular economy models, highlighting their potential to transform waste into valuable resources.

With the simultaneous support of IRRI, together with the participation of ministries, delegations, local authorities, companies and citizens, we believe that the project will be effectively implemented, contributing to transform the production of rice to increase the income of farmers, guaranteeing quality, ecological sustainability and consolidating the position of the Vietnamese rice in the international market.

Mrs. Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural production and Plant Protection

A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future

The success of this ambitious project hinges on the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including government ministries, local authorities, private companies, and international organizations. By working together, these entities can drive the transformation of rice production, enhance farmers’ livelihoods, ensure ecological sustainability, and solidify Vietnam’s position as a leading player in the global rice market.

Transforming Rice Production: Vietnam’s Ambitious Initiative

Vietnam is embarking on a transformative journey in it’s agricultural sector with the “one million hectare rice project,” an initiative poised to significantly impact both national agriculture and global food security. This project,supported by the International rice Research Institute (IRRI),aims to revolutionize rice cultivation through the implementation of advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

IRRI’s Crucial Role in Sustainable Rice Farming

IRRI is providing critical support to Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment,offering a wealth of expertise and resources. This collaboration focuses on developing technical processes for the project’s vast area, integrating high-quality rice technologies, and promoting low-emission strategies. These strategies encompass a range of improvements,including superior rice varieties,mechanized planting techniques combined with precise fertilization,optimized water management,and regionally tailored nutrient management.

The 1 million hectare rice project is an important initiative not only for Vietnam agriculture, but also for world food security. Within the framework of this project… IRRI has been supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to develop a technical process for 1 million hectares along with high quality rice technologies and low emissions.

Representative of IRRI in Vietnam

Quantifiable Benefits: Pilot Models Showcase Success

Early results from pilot models are demonstrating substantial advantages. These include:

• Seed planting reduced by 30-50%
• Nitrogen fertilizer use decreased by 30-40% per hectare
• Pesticide applications reduced by 3-4 times
• Irrigation water savings of 30-40%
• Productivity gains exceeding 5%
• profit increases surpassing 5 million VND per hectare
• Carbon emissions reduced by an average of 6 tons per hectare
• Premium pricing: Rice produced under this model commands a 200-300 VND/kg premium over market prices

These figures highlight the potential for significant economic and environmental benefits through the adoption of these innovative practices. For example, the reduction in nitrogen fertilizer aligns with global efforts to minimize nitrous oxide emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, from agricultural activities.

Economic Advantages: Cost Reduction and Increased Gains

Data from Tra Vinh, Soc Trang and Dong Thap provinces reveal significant cost reductions and increased profits.In Tra Vinh, total rice production costs within the model are 14% lower than outside the model, while gains are 20% higher. Similarly, in soc Trang and Dong Thap, the model achieves a 20% cost reduction and a 12% increase in gains. These figures underscore the economic viability and attractiveness of the new production processes for farmers.

Mechanization and straw Management: Embracing circular agriculture

The project emphasizes mechanization, particularly the use of seeders combined with precise fertilization techniques. This approach minimizes seed and fertilizer usage, boosts productivity, and lowers production costs. Moreover, the project promotes the treatment of post-harvest straw through circular agriculture models. These models, such as producing organic fertilizers from straw using integrated mechanization and biotechnology, or cultivating straw mushrooms, not only generate additional income for farmers but also reduce emissions and promote environmental sustainability.

These integrated solutions demonstrate a commitment to maximizing resource utilization and minimizing waste, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.

Climate Change Adaptation: A Key Focus

Recognizing the vulnerability of the Mekong Delta to climate change,the project prioritizes adaptation strategies. This includes developing risk and adaptation plans for crop production, which have been effectively implemented in five regions of Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta. The project also focuses on selecting rice varieties that are resistant to drought, salinity, and waterlogging, thereby enhancing the resilience of the Vietnamese rice industry to adverse environmental conditions.

Local Success Story: Can Tho’s Sustainable Rice Production Model

In Can Tho, a sustainable rice production model implemented across 50 hectares showcases the potential of advanced techniques. These techniques include mechanical planting combined with fertilizer placement,alternate wetting and drying (AWD) water management,balanced fertilization based on crop needs,and adherence to the “1 must,5 reductions” rice cultivation process. Participating companies purchase rice at premium prices, demonstrating the viability of a sustainable value chain.

The results of the implementation of a sustainable rice production model… applying advanced techniques… companies buy rice at higher prices to those in the market, demonstrating the potential to form a sustainable value chain.

Pham Thi Minh Hieu, head of the city’s culture and plant protection, Can Tho

The Department of Agriculture and Environment in Can Tho, in collaboration with IRRI, is actively evaluating the technical proficiency of farmers to provide targeted support and incentives. Future plans include scaling up the model, expanding training programs, and strengthening market linkages to improve farmer incomes and contribute to Vietnam’s emission reduction targets in agriculture.

Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for Vietnamese Rice

Vietnam’s million-hectare rice project represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. By embracing innovation, promoting climate-smart practices, and fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and farmers, Vietnam is paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for its rice industry. The project’s success could serve as a model for other rice-producing nations seeking to enhance food security while minimizing environmental impact.

Pillars of Sustainable Rice Production

Vietnam is making significant strides in sustainable agriculture with its “Green and Low-Emission Vietnamese Rice” initiative. This project emphasizes the development of a national brand synonymous with environmental obligation and high-quality rice production. The collaboration between the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has identified key areas for long-term cooperation. These pillars include:

• Developing a high-quality, low-emission rice production model.
• Strengthening the rice value chain through in-depth analysis and digital tools.
• Supporting evidence-based policies and Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems for emission reduction.
• Establishing a regional technical center to support cooperatives and farmers.
• Providing training to enhance personnel capacity and agricultural extension services.

VIETRISA’s Role in Building a Green Brand

VIETRISA (Vietnam Rice Industry Association) plays a crucial role in this transformation. With support from IRRI,VIETRISA is actively building the low-emission green rice brand and granting usage certificates to companies participating in the expansive 1 million-hectare rice project. This initiative aligns with the national branding strategy, aiming to position Vietnamese rice as a leader in the global carbon market [[2]].

Technical Applications and Their Impact

The success of the project hinges on the effective application of advanced techniques. These include straw management processes based on circular economy principles, which have been successfully piloted across various locations. Key techniques being implemented are:

• Mechanized planting and cultivation.
• Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation techniques.
• Efficient straw management.
• Quantitative calculation of emission reduction (MRV).

Industry Perspectives

Stakeholders directly involved in the project have shared their insights on its impact.

Looking Ahead

Vietnam’s commitment to “low-emission green Vietnamese rice” represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural sector. By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing environmental responsibility, Vietnam is poised to become a global leader in green rice production.The “Green and Low-Emission Vietnam Rice” trademark launched in April signifies this commitment [[1]].