High-altitude Chayote Grown in Vietnam Catches the Eye of Foreign Partners

In the cool highlands of Mu Cang Chai, Vietnam, T&D Clean Agricultural Cooperative cultivates high-quality chayote. The cooperative's 12 hectares yield a fragrant, sweet chayote, thriving in the region's cool climate and fertile soil. Pham Quang Tho, Director of the cooperative, started this agricultural model in 2007 and transitioned to chayote in 2019. The chayote plants, requiring minimal replanting, produce a continuous harvest from May to December. Using organic farming practices, including mountain stream irrigation and composted manure, the cooperative yields 7 to 10 tons of chayote daily, supplying wholesale markets in various Vietnamese cities. With growing interest from international agricultural exporters, particularly in India and Taiwan, the cooperative plans to expand production to meet export demands. This expansion includes increasing daily output to 15-20 tons and improving quality to meet international standards. The cooperative also supports local farmers through seed provision, technical guidance, and guaranteed purchase agreements, fostering community growth alongside its own. The cooperative's commitment to quality is evident in its 3-star OCOP certification, recognizing the chayote's superior aroma, sweetness, and appearance.