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A delegation from the Vietnam Farmers’ Union (VNFU) recently embarked on a study tour to the Netherlands, as part of the Tropical Fruit Quality Project. This visit, which took place from June 7th to 15th, 2024, aimed to equip Vietnamese farmers with the cutting-edge tools and techniques needed to navigate the challenges of climate change and propel their agricultural practices to the forefront of global efficiency and sustainability.

The delegation including representatives of VNFU and MCNV visits Eurofins Agro.

The delegation’s itinerary delved deep into the diverse aspects of the Dutch agricultural sector, including the integration of advanced technologies into agricultural processes, the intricacies of international agricultural logistics; alignment of fruit production practices with the requirements of international importers and experience sharing on climate-smart solutions.
The delegation was led by Ms. Bui Thi Thom, Vice President of the VNFU Executive Committee, comprising representatives from the Farmers’ Unions of project provinces (Dong Thap, Ben Tre, Long An, and Binh Thuan) alongside MCNV’s project coordinator.

The delegation’s journey began at the Hoeve Ackerdijk multi-purpose organic farm in Delft on June 7th. This model farm showcased the transformative potential of organic practices, demonstrating positive environmental impacts like improved water quality, increased biodiversity, and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, the farm impressed with its efficient irrigation technology, advanced disease management strategies, and the combination with other services that foster farmers-citizen connection, such as a childcare facility, a nature conservation zone, and renewable energy generation.

This visit served as a testament to the high level of technological adoption by Dutch farmers and their commitment to meeting market demands while safeguarding the environment.

On June 10th, the delegation gained insight of the international agricultural logistics and market demand through a meeting with the Logistic Business Partners (LBP) Company in Rotterdam. The delegation learned about post-shipment vinegar ripening and packaging systems, quality control measures.
A fascinating fact was discovered since many agricultural products imported through LBP, such as sugarcane, chili peppers, turmeric, and aloe vera – the crops that Vietnam possesses vast potential to export. This underscored the importance of understanding import market demands and developing effective marketing strategies for Vietnamese farmers to tap into the global marketplace.

The delegation’s quest for knowledge continued at the Wageningen University & Research on June 11th to learn about plant protection solutions for fruits based on flexible greenhouses, sensor-based irrigation management technology, application of satellite data, soil scanning, climate data and weather forecasting.

On the same day, the delegation worked with RMA Company to learn about irrigation management technology based on soil moisture sensors, weather stations, and data application for effective irrigation advice. These technologies are well-suited for large cooperative models and for high-value crops.
On June 12, the delegation worked with Eurofins Agro in Wageningen. The center provides services to support farmers and growers in improving their farming systems and assists food and feed companies in sustainable production. In particular, Eurofins Agro has strengths in in-depth soil health research and deep insights to support more sustainable farming practices.
This is also a place where soil analysis techniques are continuously developed, including near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology or the detailed determination of parameters such as total organic carbon in soil, soil fertility, nutrient reserves, pollutants in soil and in crops, as a basis for guiding farmers in making decisions and minimizing risks.
In the time to come, the project will continue to collaborate with the VNFU to expand Eurofins’ soil testing services to more farmers in the project’s provinces, making it easier for farmers to access this valuable technology. This is the most fundamental scientific foundation for farmers to understand and step by step apply advanced knowledge to change agricultural cultivation methods.

On June 13, the delegation visited the Greentech exhibition, learning about and visiting booths introducing high-tech solutions in agriculture such as sensor systems, automatic fertilization, vertical racks, transportation management systems, automatic product sorting systems, drones for farm management, vertical garden systems, hydroponic systems, and farm monitoring systems. The delegation visited and learned about the booth introducing Fruit Logistica fair – a trade “bridge” attracting a large number of fruit importers and exporters from around the world held annually in Berlin, Germany in February.
Ms. Bui Thi Thom, VNFU Vice President, emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and practical application: “Farmers who can witness the results of these high-tech models firsthand will be more receptive to adopting them in their own practices. The VNFU is hopeful that collaboration with the Netherlands can lead to the establishment of pilot projects in Vietnam, allowing farmers to gain firsthand experience and raise awareness of the transformative potential of agricultural technology.”

According to Vice President of VNFU, the Vietnamese government, recognizing the critical role of technology in ensuring farmer well-being and sustainable agricultural development, strongly encourages technology adoption in the sector. The VNFU, representing over 10 million members and farmers, plays a crucial role in promoting and facilitating the integration of science and technology into agricultural practices.
Ms.Bui Thi Thom also emphasized that to enhance the effectiveness of communication and assist farmers in adopting new technologies, particularly soil testing. As part of the Tropical Fruit Quality Project, VNFU, through collaborative efforts with government agencies, businesses, and enterprises, will organize promotional and training activities to further empower Vietnamese farmers.
The Tropical Fruit Quality Improvement Project is financially sponsored by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, implemented in 04 provinces of Binh Thuan, Long An, Ben Tre and Dong Thap. The Medical Committee Netherlands – Vietnam (MCNV) plays an important role in coordinating and facilitating the flow of advanced technology and information from leading EU technical partners to Vietnam, that benefits Vietnamese farmers and fruit exporters./.

For the first time ever, stunning textiles from the traditional Xi Thoai village ( Dong Xuan district, Phu Yen province) are on display in Hanoi in an exhibition themed ” Introduction of Xi Thoai Brocade Village” held at the Hanoi Old Quarter Heritage Information Center (28 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District) from April 20th, 2024 to May 15th, 2024.

Ms. Tran Thi Thuy Lan, Deputy Head of the Hanoi Old Quarter Management Board, and Mr. Dam Dai Huu, Director of Dai Huu Travel Co., Ltd., presented bouquets of flowers to two esteemed artisans, Ms. Le Thi Thu Dien and Ms. So Thi Chuyen.

On the afternoon of April 20th, 2024, thanks to MCNV’s sponsorship, two talented artisans named Le Thi Thu Dien and So Thi Chuyen represented the production groups at the exhibition. They gave amazing demonstrations of their exquisite brocade weaving skills  and brought to the event a whole range of beautiful, handcrafted brocade products, including traditional outfits, shawls, drawstring bags, pen bags, cellphone bags, etc.
Nestled in the commune of Xuan Lanh commune, Dong Xuan district, Xi Thoai village is home to 219 households, primarily of the Ba Na ethnic group (accounting for 95%). The village’s brocade weaving craft boasts a rich history, spanning nearly 80 years of development. Originating from individual households producing for self-consumption, Xi Thoai brocade gradually gained recognition for its unique beauty, becoming a sought-after item not only within Xuan Lanh commune but also in the neighboring districts of Son Hoa and Song Hinh in Phu Yen province.

A distinctive feature of Xi Thoai brocade lies in its intricate weaving technique, creating raised patterns that resemble embroidery, despite the entire weaving process is executed on a loom. The craft demands immense concentration, as the artisan must memorize each thread and pattern to correctly switch between colored yarns. Any errors or omissions during weaving necessitate instantly unraveling and redoing the affected section.

Adorning Bana brocade are recurring symbolic motifs inspired by nature, reflecting the people’s worldview encompassing the cosmos, heaven and earth, yin and yang.

Adorning Bana brocade are recurring symbolic motifs inspired by nature, reflecting the people’s worldview encompassing the cosmos, heaven and earth, yin and yang, mountains, fauna and flora. Each brocade piece serves as a miniature tapestry depicting the vibrant natural world and scenes of daily life. The primary colors employed in Ba Na brocade are white, red, and black. These colors carry profound meanings: red representing aspiration, vigor and love; white embodying hope and dreams; and black symbolizing the superpower of the mountains and forests, additionally revered as the most sacred color among the Ba Na people.

In recent years, with traditional crafts at risk of being forgotten, local authorities, businesses, organizations, and individuals have undertaken concerted efforts to preserve and promote Xi Thoai brocade. As part of the project Boosting income and jobs for poor ethnic women in Dong Xuan district  implemented by MCNV and co-funded by GSRD foundation, the Xi Thoai brocade tradition is getting a major boost. MCNV has been supporting the craft through things like setting up cooperatives, sending artisans on learning trips to other provinces, offering skill-building workshops, providing equipment, and helping connect brocade makers with businesses to sell their products. The brocade weaving cooperative currently has 22 members, and is expecting to recruit more members.

These initiatives have contributed significantly to the revitalization of Xi Thoai brocade, ensuring its continued existence as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Ba Na people. The preservation of this traditional craft not only economically and socially empowers the Ba Na women but also safeguards an invaluable piece of Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.

“Brocade weaving has been my passion since I was a teenager. Recently, thanks to a project-sponsored learning trip to a cooperative in Quang Nam province, I’ve gained the skills to create new, modern products like these small bags. Before, we primarily focused on larger items like clothing and shawls. I’m thrilled to bring these innovative pieces to Hanoi for the first time! Upon returning to my village, I’ll continue to improve my skills, make more brocade products, and share my knowledge with the next generation”, said artisan Le Thi Thu Dien.

Artisan Le Thi Thu Dien is passionate for brocade weaving.

The Xi Thoai Brocade Introduction event in Hanoi stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. By bringing together artisans, cultural experts, and the wider public, the event fostered a deeper appreciation for the unique traditions and artistry of Xi Thoai brocade.

During the event’s opening ceremony, Ms. Tran Thi Thuy Lan, Deputy Head of the Hanoi Old Quarter Management Board, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditional crafts like Xí Thoại brocade. She noted that this was the first time the Hanoi Old Quarter Management Board had collaborated with a Central region province to organize such an event, underscoring the significance of cross-regional cultural exchange.

Dr.Tran Doan Lam, culture scholar, speaks at the opening ceremony.

Dr. Tran Doan Lam, a cultural researcher and Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Vietnam Studies Journal, spoke at the event, highlighting Xi Thoai brocade as an intangible cultural heritage of Phu Yen Province. He commended the craft’s distinctive patterns and motifs, which embody the ethnic identity of the Ba Na people, as well as the intricate techniques and craftsmanship involved in its creation.

Dr. Tran Doan Lam expressed his belief that the event in Hanoi, the “mirror reflecting the quintessence of the country’s regions” and a “national leader in heritage conservation and promotion,” would serve as an effective channel for promoting Phu Yen Province’s cultural and tourism products. He envisioned the event opening up new market opportunities for Xi Thoai brocade artisans and contributing to the future development of village tourism./.