Go Cong Region: Rice Ripens but Faces Localized Flooding

The winter-spring rice crop in Go Cong district, Tien Giang province, is facing challenges due to extreme weather and localized flooding. Unseasonal rains and cold weather have led to reduced yields, with harvests averaging around 5 tons/ha compared to over 8 tons/ha in previous years. Furthermore, rice prices have dropped significantly, with Dai Thom 8 priced at 7,000 VND/kg and Nang Hoa 9 at 7,100 VND/kg, a decrease of 1,000 - 2,000 VND/kg compared to last year. Flooding in low-lying areas, caused by increased freshwater intake at Xuan Hoa sluice to combat salinity intrusion, is further hindering harvesting efforts and impacting farmers' profits. The high water levels prevent the use of machinery and make it difficult for workers to access the fields. This combination of lower yields and prices is resulting in significant losses for many farmers in the region.