Dong Thap's 'Multi-Value' Lotus Strategy

Lotus farming in Dong Thap province offers significant profit potential, often 3-4 times higher than rice cultivation. The province's favorable conditions support robust lotus growth, leading to high economic efficiency for farmers. To further capitalize on this, Dong Thap has implemented a lotus industry restructuring program focused on sustainable development. This initiative aims to reduce costs, improve quality, and increase the variety of processed lotus products. While lotus cultivation area experienced a decline between 2016 and 2019, it has since rebounded. The restructuring program addresses challenges such as small-scale production and lack of processing and branding. By supporting farmers, cooperatives, and businesses with new techniques and infrastructure, Dong Thap aims to diversify lotus products and increase market value. This includes developing products like lotus tea, cosmetics, and functional foods, ultimately enhancing farmer incomes and boosting the local economy.