Exploiting the Advantages of Signature Agricultural Products

Phu Tho has been consistently striving to build brands for its agricultural goods to expand consumption markets and enhance product value. To leverage its advantages, the province focuses on branding, technology application, and market connectivity, transforming agricultural produce into key, competitive products in the market.

During the final days of the year, pomelo farmers in the communes of Chi Dam, Bang Luan, Tay Coc, and Doan Hung are busily harvesting fruit for traders for the traditional Tet holiday. These golden, ripe pomelos are eye-catchingly packaged with full labels and QR codes, reflecting a significant shift in the production mindset of local farmers.

Tea is one of Phu Tho’s signature agricultural products, possessing vast potential for export.

Mr. Nguyen Song Toan, Chairman of the Bang Luan Commune People’s Committee—one of the communes with the largest pomelo areas in the province—shared: “Previously, farmers only focused on increasing yield rather than quality or branding. Since Doan Hung pomelos established a brand, growers have shifted their mindset from “agricultural production” to an “agricultural economy,” prioritizing product quality, investing in packaging and design, and proactively seeking markets.”

Phu Tho possesses many signature products with the potential to achieve 4-star and 5-star OCOP ratings, such as Doan Hung pomelos, green tea, Phu Tho sour cassava leaves, Cao Phong oranges, Kim Boi bamboo shoots, red-fleshed dragon fruit from Lap Thach and Chan Mong, Muong Thang sugarcane, honey, Tam Dao chayote, Lac Thuy chicken, and Tan Son multi-spur chicken. Capitalizing on these potentials, the province is accelerating the OCOP program as a key solution to increase value and promote sustainable rural economic development.

According to the strategic orientation, the OCOP program is implemented as a pillar of the rural economy, centering on the internal resources of the people and the community. The focus is on developing advantageous agricultural and non-agricultural products and services following a value chain, with the active participation of private and collective economic sectors.

OCOP is not merely about selecting and recognizing signature products; it aims to change the production and business mindset of residents, cooperatives, and enterprises—moving from small-scale, fragmented production to standardized, branded commodity production with stable and sustainable markets.

After more than seven years of implementation, the OCOP program has created a clear ripple effect. Many producers have proactively invested in process improvements and scientific-technological applications. Numerous products now feature innovative packaging and labels that tell stories linked to local history, culture, and natural conditions, creating a unique footprint in the market.

Branding and Geographical Indication (GI) help Cao Phong oranges increase their value.

With 689 recognized OCOP products (3 stars or higher), including 6 products rated 5 stars and 100 products rated 4 stars, Phu Tho’s agriculture is well-positioned to develop along a modern, sustainable, and environmentally friendly path.

Digital transformation and the promotion of products on e-commerce platforms and social media provide opportunities for Phu Tho’s agricultural products to reach major markets, especially for export. Mr. Bui Duy Linh, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment, stated: To further develop high-value signature goods, the province has detailed plans for concentrated production and processing zones. Research institutions are being mobilized to transfer scientific progress to farmers and businesses across all stages—from breeding and intensive farming to preservation, processing, and branding.

Alongside appropriate mechanisms to encourage the expansion of key agricultural areas, relevant sectors are intensifying communication to raise awareness among citizens and businesses regarding the role of intellectual property (IP). Support is being provided to establish IP rights for specific advantageous products such as tea, citrus fruits, and aquatic products, ensuring the sustainable development of established brands to affirm their market position and contribute to the province’s socio-economic growth.

Quan Lam