Rice growing areas to expand

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has asked the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta provinces to develop plans to sustainably increase areas for cultivation of the autumn-winter rice crop.

The plans would include reinforcing dykes, building electric water pumping systems, using appropriate rice varieties and applying good farming practices.

Studies should be conducted before cultivation areas are expanded, particularly in areas where farmers agree to the proposals.

The ministry has set a June deadline for completion of the plans so that they can be implemented for this autumn-winter crop.

The Department of Crop Production has been assigned to work with relevant departments and agencies to assist the provinces with the research and planning.

Last year, 500,000 ha was planted for the autumn-winter rice crop in the delta, an increase of 100,000 ha against the previous year, according to statistics released by the ministry.

Planting for the crop is done in the rainy season, which provides sufficient irrigation water, while harvesting is done in the dry season, which favours the rice drying process.

The favourable conditions for the autumn-winter crop create average yields of five tonnes per ha.

Tags: Vietnam rice, Vietnam Rice prices