Purple onions have long been a staple crop in Vinh Chau (Soc Trang), thriving in the region’s favorable soil conditions. Known for their superior quality and strong domestic and export demand, these onions are now at the center of an organic farming revolution.
Government Support and Transition to Organic Practices
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Soc Trang has actively promoted organic farming by providing farmers with seeds, fertilizers, and technical guidance. This shift from conventional to organic methods has led to:
- Higher yields (increasing by 100–200 kg per 1,000 m²)
- Lower production costs (reducing expenses by 500,000–1,000,000 VND per 1,000 m²)
- Better market prices (organic onions sell for 22,000 VND/kg compared to conventionally grown ones)
Farmer Success Stories
- Ms. Thach Thi Khuong (Vinh Phuoc district) reported:
- Yield: 4.2 tons per 2,000 m²
- Profit: Over 40 million VND per crop
- Improved soil fertility and reduced chemical use
- Mr. Cao Van Minh (Vinh Hai commune) shared:
- Yield: 6.6 tons per 3,000 m²
- Profit: Over 60 million VND per crop
- Enhanced onion quality with larger bulbs and richer color
Expanding Organic Production
Currently, over 3.2 hectares in Vinh Chau are dedicated to organic purple onion farming, with plans to expand further under Soc Trang’s 2022–2025 Organic Agriculture Project. The goal is to transition 32% of the province’s 7,000 hectares of onion farms to VietGAP and organic standards, boosting export potential.
The shift to organic purple onion farming in Soc Trang demonstrates how sustainable practices can increase profitability, protect the environment, and meet consumer demand for healthier food. With continued government support and farmer adoption, this model could set a benchmark for organic agriculture in Vietnam and beyond.
