Hang Gon Ward: Transforming production, developing modern agriculture

Hang Gon Ward was established through the merger of the former Hang Gon Commune and Xuan Tan Ward. In recent times, by promoting the application of science and technology, mechanization and production linkages, the locality has gradually developed agriculture toward a modern and sustainable model.

Beekeeping model of the Hang Gon Beekeeping–Trading–Service Agricultural Cooperative.

Cooperatives (Co-ops), cooperative groups and clubs of outstanding farmers in production and business have continuously innovated and strengthened their role in linking farmers in the development of high-tech agriculture and digital transformation. These efforts have gradually helped build agricultural value chains from production and processing to distribution, creating greater added value.

Linking farmers to produce high-quality products

Tran Tuan Kiet is one of the farmers pioneering the shift toward organic production. Three years ago, Kiet began using indigenous microorganisms and producing his own organic fertilizers to nourish crops, while prioritizing biological products to prevent and control pests and diseases. As a result, his products have achieved high quality and safety standards and have gained popularity in the market.

In the early stages of converting to organic production, Kiet faced considerable difficulties as crop yields declined and the appearance of the produce was not as good as when chemical fertilizers and pesticides were used. However, after persevering with the new approach, the soil gradually became more fertile, crops grew healthier, and pests and diseases declined and became easier to control.

According to Nguyen Thanh Hien, Vice Chairwoman in charge of the Dong Nai City Cooperative Alliance, the Dong Nai Cooperative Development Support Fund provides financial resources to help cooperatives invest in production and apply new scientific and technical advances.

Digital transformation is a long-term process that begins with changing cooperatives’ awareness of the role and importance of digital transformation in production and business activities. The City Cooperative Alliance hopes that this shift in awareness will prompt cooperatives to invest in financial and human resources to effectively adopt and apply digital transformation.

Tran Tuan Kiet affirmed that the shift to organic production is the right direction, as both domestic and export markets increasingly demand clean, high-quality products. This is also an important factor in helping growers build their reputation, establish sustainable markets and secure better prices.

“In production, I focus on applying scientific and technical advances, from selecting new varieties with high yields and quality to cultivation and care processes, so that orchards can achieve both productivity and quality and meet the stringent requirements of export markets,” Kiet said.

The application of science and technology and the shift toward safe, standards-based production are no longer limited to a handful of farmers in Hang Gon Ward. Through clubs of outstanding farmers in production and business, cooperative groups and cooperatives, safe and efficient production models are being replicated, gradually forming linkages extending from production to processing and distribution while meeting export-market standards.

Nguyen Thi Ngoc Danh, a member of the Hang Gon Beekeeping–Trading–Service Agricultural Cooperative, said the cooperative brings together beekeeping households and connects them, providing mutual support in technical knowledge and beekeeping experience while working toward the stable and sustainable development of the industry. The cooperative also serves as a focal point to help its members access government support policies, particularly financing. This helps improve product quality and increase members’ incomes.

Digital transformation to expand markets

The Hang Gon Beekeeping–Trading–Service Agricultural Cooperative currently supplies more than 20 tons of honey to the market each year and offers around 20 processed products, including fermented honey, papaya-flower-infused honey, red-lime-infused honey, and mulberry-infused honey. The cooperative's key products have received certification under the One Commune One Product (OCOP) program. Around 80% of the cooperative's product output is sold through e-commerce platforms and social media channels.

Nguyen Thi Dao, a representative of the Hang Gon Beekeeping–Trading–Service Agricultural Cooperative, said the cooperative has taken the lead in digital transformation and the application of science and technology in production. It has established an integrated digital process covering management, sales, payments, tax finalization and invoice issuance.

The cooperative also focuses on promoting its product brand by actively participating in trade-matching activities, trade promotion programs, fairs and exhibitions. By selling products directly to customers, the cooperative has secured stable outlets and better prices.

Vo Thi Tuyet Thu, Vice Chairwoman of the Hang Gon Ward Farmers’ Association, said the ward has recently established the Outstanding Farmers in Production and Business Club Associated with Digital Transformation, with 22 members. The club brings together successful farmers and businesspeople who embrace innovation and apply science and technology and digital transformation to production and business.

Drawing on experience passed down through generations, as well as occupational linkage models and new approaches associated with digital transformation, the club will contribute to building an increasingly united, dynamic and creative farmers' movement in Hang Gon, gradually adapting to the demands of modern agriculture.

By Binh Nguyen – Translated by Mai Nga, Minho