Vietnam highland regions expand medicinal and coffee production

Highland provinces in Vietnam are leveraging natural advantages in climate and soil to transition toward high-value agricultural products. In Lao Cai province, specifically within Phinh Ho commune, residents are increasingly cultivating medicinal plants and specialty crops to improve livelihoods and protect forests.

Local statistics in Phinh Ho show over 570 hectares dedicated to high-value crops, including hawthorn, cardamom, and purple cardamom. These crops provide significant annual income for local households, contributing to sustainable poverty reduction.

In Son La province, Arabica coffee has evolved from a land-greening crop into a primary agricultural commodity. The province has expanded its Arabica cultivation area to over 44,000 hectares, producing nearly 51,000 tons of coffee beans annually. Son La is now the largest Arabica growing region in Vietnam. To meet international market demands, the province is shifting focus from expanding acreage to improving quality, deep processing, and establishing sustainable production chains through cooperatives.