Developing and preserving traditional craft villages

Over time, many craft villages in Phu Tho province have faced the risk of disappearing. However, thanks to the attention and support of authorities at all levels, along with the dedication and creativity of skilled artisans, these villages have successfully revived and produced unique, high-quality products that cater to consumer tastes. As a result, they have gradually established a strong foothold and enhanced their competitiveness in the market.

Tea harvesting in Khuan tea craft village, Son Hung commune, Thanh Son district, follows the “one bud, two leaves” standard to ensure high economic value.

Sustaining Production Efforts

Currently, over 70 craft villages in the province are operating steadily, primarily at the household level, with nearly 7,000 households, 25 enterprises, and 11 cooperatives. These villages provide employment for nearly 17,000 workers, including more than 11,000 regular workers. The total annual revenue of craft villages is estimated at over VND 1,000 billion. Since the beginning of the year, craft villages have resumed production with renewed enthusiasm, aiming to deliver high-quality products that improve livelihoods and drive rural economic development.

In Nha Nit Peach Blossom Village, Thanh Dinh Commune, Viet Tri City, peach growers have entered a new production cycle in preparation for the next flowering season. Gardeners are actively digging holes, preparing new soil, and tending to newly grafted peach trees to ensure proper growth and timely blooming for the Lunar New Year.

Mr. Nguyen Van Ly, head of Nha Nit Peach Blossom Village, shared: "Many people believe that growing peach blossoms is only a year-end task, but in reality, early-year care is crucial. Farmers must focus on planting and restoring newly grafted trees. Right now, my family is caring for over 100 peach trees, most of which are old trees, requiring meticulous attention to ensure healthy growth."

At the home of Mr. Hoang Xuan Huy, a village member, the family had just completed planting over 30 new peach trees purchased after Tet. Mr. Huy explained: "Replanting peach trees requires precise techniques to ensure proper adaptation and growth. Additionally, shaping the tree canopy is essential, achieved through bending, tying young branches together, or using frames to create predetermined shapes, alongside careful pruning to remove unwanted branches."

Currently, more than 120 households in the village are engaged in peach farming, covering nearly 7.5 hectares. During the 2025 Lunar New Year season, many families are expected to earn between VND 100 million and VND 200 million, significantly improving their livelihoods and contributing to local economic growth.

As production continues, handicraft villages in the province are integrating cultural heritage with artisans' technical expertise to create high-value products. The province currently has 20 handicraft villages specializing in products such as wooden furniture, rattan and bamboo weaving, and textiles, accounting for 26.6% of all craft villages in Phu Tho.

In Viet Tien Carpentry Village, Tu Xa Commune, Lam Thao District, production has slowed slightly at the beginning of the year due to decreased market demand. Many households are focusing on fulfilling existing orders while actively seeking new business opportunities.

Mr. Chu Van Ngo, head of the craft village, noted: "With advancements in science and technology, craft households have proactively invested in modern machinery to specialize production stages and optimize labor division. Our village mainly produces household wooden furniture such as beds, tables, chairs, and cabinets. These products are becoming increasingly sophisticated, durable, and aesthetically refined, reaching markets across the country."

The diverse range of products from Phu Tho’s craft villages continues to improve in design, quality, and competitiveness. This has led to more effective production and business operations, contributing to shifts in labor and economic structures, building new rural areas, creating jobs, increasing incomes, and driving sustainable poverty reduction.

Viet Tien Carpentry Village in Tu Xa Commune applies technological advancements to enhance product quality.

Preserving and Promoting Craft Village Strengths

In recent years, Phu Tho has prioritized the preservation and development of craft villages through targeted policies and initiatives. Many village products have been included in the One Commune One Product (OCOP) Program, aligning with consumer preferences while diversifying tourism-related products and services. Authorities have also supported craft villages through training programs, trade promotions, and collective brand development, resulting in high-value goods. To date, nearly 20 craft village products in the province have received OCOP certification with three-star ratings or higher, and 11 villages have had their products certified with collective brands.

Despite these achievements, challenges remain. Many craft villages still operate on a small and fragmented scale, primarily at the household level. Product quality is inconsistent, value remains relatively low, and environmental concerns persist.

Mr. Vu Quoc Tuan, Head of the Department of Rural Development, emphasized:"To effectively preserve and develop craft villages, the province has tailored strategies to leverage each locality’s strengths. We encourage production facilities to expand, invest in design improvements to meet market demands, and strengthen production-consumption value chains. A key goal for the 2022-2030 period is to develop 8-10 potential craft villages linked to tourism and service sectors."

Additionally, the province is promoting vocational training, recognizing artisans, and implementing policies to support skilled workers. Local authorities are also encouraging artisans to participate in training programs and pass on their expertise to the next generation.

To enhance market access, the province is increasing support for craft village participation in trade fairs, expanding sales channels through shopping centers and supermarkets, and integrating craft village development with tourism programs. Expanding craft village tourism through guided tours and on-site product demonstrations will help connect traditional crafts with domestic and international consumers.

At the same time, efforts are being made to integrate science, technology, and sustainable materials into production. Emphasis is placed on environmentally friendly technologies and renewable energy sources, ensuring efficiency while preserving the artistic, aesthetic, and traditional values of craft village products.

With these strategic measures, Phu Tho aims to ensure the sustainable preservation and growth of its craft villages. This will not only uphold traditional cultural values but also enhance production efficiency, increase market competitiveness, and improve economic benefits for craft village communities.

Ha Nhung