Cocoa Project in Vietnam
Project Dates: Ongoing since 1997
Country: Vietnam
Funder: World Cocoa Foundation
Implementer: Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City
Overview
The Cocoa Project in Vietnam aims to increase local extension and technical support capacity and to promote cocoa among smallholder farmers. The project is currently active in the following 10 provinces: Ba Ria Vung Tau, Binh Phuoc, Ben Tre, Dak Lak, Dong Nai, Dak Nong, Lam Dong, Phu Yen, Tien Giang, and Vinh Long.
Program Objectives:
- To introduce cocoa clones to Vietnam for commercial planting and breeding
- To establish demonstration plots in different agro-ecosystems to test cocoa’s adaptability
- To promote cocoa as a new perennial crop suitable for smallholder farmers
- To conduct research and technology transfer to local officials and farmers
- To collaborate with local and international institutions to develop cocoa
Progress to Date:
- Cocoa breeding program. The cocoa germplasm at Nong Lam University has 146 entries. Of these, 8 clones were approved by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for commercial use throughout the country. A microsatellite database was developed for 88 of the clones to facilitate easy identification of germplasm entries with selected characteristics. In addition, the Cocoa Project participates in an Asia Pacific regional breeding program. Under this program, Nong Lam is conducting progeny trials using 4 progenies from Malaysia and 3 from Indonesia. Nong Lam has also sent 5 progenies to Malaysia and Indonesia as part of the program.
- Cocoa sector development. On the local level, the project maintains demonstration plots in 8 provinces to teach farmers about cocoa and conduct experiments. The team also participates in provincial agricultural fairs to provide information on producing cocoa locally. On the national level, Nong Lam University participates in Vietnam Cocoa Development Committee meetings.
- 3,782 farmers and local officials trained. The Cocoa Project works with SUCCESS Alliance Vietnam (implemented by ACDI/VOCA) to train facilitators and farmers. The Cocoa Project also provides trainings and free consultancy to farmers living in areas that are not currently part of the SUCCESS Alliance Program. Training topics include irrigation, fertilizer use, and pest and disease control. The Project provides ongoing support through an informal cocoa “hotline” to answer questions from callers.
- Post harvest and pest control research. Current research projects include use of black ants to control Helopeltis, use of Vetiver grass to control termites, and fermentation techniques suitable to the local environment. Centers of Excellence at Nong Lam University in Ho Chi Minh City (established in 1997) and in Dak Lak Province (established in 2002) are the main sites for training and research.
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