The first organic cucumber crop at Minh Thanh Cooperative, Van Du commune, Nghe An province has achieved results far exceeding initial expectations. Not only bringing a bumper harvest, this model also sends a positive signal about a sustainable agricultural development path in the locality.
Short-term crops for long-term gains, preserving large timber forests
Implemented from August 2025 within the framework of Project AIN8748, the organic agricultural model linked with large timber forest planting carries a dual purpose. The project helps small-scale forest owners earn additional income from short-term crops through organic farming methods, allowing them to maintain and keep acacia plantations for a longer cycle. To participate in the model, all households must commit to keeping acacia plantations for at least 8 years before harvesting, which is a choice that brings long-term value to both the economy and the environment.
Surveying and selecting the location to implement the model.
A systematic approach from production to consumption
Identifying quality as the core factor, right from the beginning, the model was meticulously prepared with the close companionship of organic agriculture experts under PGS standards. Going through strict processes from surveying soil and water, building farming plans to organizing technical training classes and production record keeping, people in Van Du have gradually become accustomed to clean, transparent, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Technical training on organic farming under PGS standards.
Not stopping at the production stage, Project AIN8748 has also supported market connection, brand building, and establishing a traceability system for the products. Through the connection program, Van Du PGS organic transitional cucumber products have been purchased every day by the BigGreen organic food chain with a stable price that is twice as high as previous crops.
Implementing the cucumber model and leaders of Van Du Commune People’s Committee visiting the Van Du PGS organic cucumber model.
The Van Du PGS Organic Certification Management Board awarding the Organic Transition Recognition Certificate to 2 production groups within the framework of the market connection program for organic products.
Paving the way for sustainable agriculture
Behind the lush green cucumber rows is the perseverance of the people, the support of experts, the Van Du PGS Management Board, and Minh Thanh Cooperative. This success also highlights the coordinating role of the Project Management Board at the Central Vietnam Climate Change Study Centre, University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University, along with the financial support and companionship of Project AIN8748 funded by the FFD organization and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
Van Du PGS organic transitional cucumbers displayed for sale in supermarkets in Hanoi.
Following this initial success, Minh Thanh Cooperative and the people of Van Du commune are now ready to expand the organic cucumber cultivation area according to PGS standards. A cucumber crop has closed, but a new path for agriculture linked with sustainable forest development in Van Du has only just begun.