Dai Apple - The Pride of Muong Bu People

Mr. Nguyen Dinh Huong in Ta Mo village, Muong Bu commune (Muong La district, Son La province) is earning hundreds of millions of VND annually by cultivating Dai apples. Apple trees have existed in Son La for decades, but previously low selling prices led many farmers to switch to other crops. Muong La's favorable climate and soil conditions, however, are ideal for apple cultivation. After graduating from university, Mr. Huong recognized the potential of Dai apples and spent 10 years researching and developing this variety. His Hung Thinh Cooperative, established in 2014, now consists of 20 households, with 7 focusing on Dai apple production. By 2019, the cooperative's 80 hectares achieved VietGAP certification, ensuring safe and high-quality fresh fruit for the market. Dai apple trees in Muong Bu commune yield high productivity, with each household potentially earning significant income from just a few trees. Current prices allow farmers to earn 600-700 million VND per hectare. These trees are also relatively easy to cultivate, with simple techniques and low susceptibility to pests and diseases. The cooperative employs organic farming practices, using organic fertilizer and prioritizing natural pest control methods. Hung Thinh Dai apples are large, green, and sweet with a mild aroma. This fresh mango-like sweetness has made them a popular choice among consumers and earned them OCOP 3-star certification in 2023. The apples are now sold in major supermarkets and specialty stores, becoming a symbol of pride for the Muong Bu people and a favored gift representing the Northwest region.