(VAN) Through partnerships with enterprises producing MD2 pineapple for processing, farmers are assured of stable market outlets and can earn consistent profits.
In recent years, climate change has had a significant impact on agricultural production in Can Tho City, particularly on pineapple cultivation. Rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, and increasingly erratic rainfall patterns have directly affected crop growth and development. In addition, years of continuous cultivation and sustained pressure on land use have gradually reduced soil fertility, posing considerable challenges to local pineapple production.
Pineapple fields have been affected by pests and diseases, with poor plant growth caused by adverse weather conditions and soil degradation. Photo: Van Vu.
Can Tho City currently has approximately 3,542 hectares of pineapple cultivation, concentrated mainly in Long Hung, Hoa Luu, Phuong Binh and surrounding areas. Pineapple is an important crop that supports the livelihoods of many farming households while supplying raw materials for processing industries. As weather conditions become increasingly extreme, the MD2 pineapple cultivation model is emerging as a suitable adaptation solution.
In Long Hung Commune, what began as several hectares of pilot cultivation has now expanded to around 40 hectares of MD2 pineapple, demonstrating the variety’s adaptability to this new growing area.
Meanwhile, Hoa Luu Commune has long been known as a traditional pineapple-growing region, where farmers continue to maintain conventional cultivation practices. However, due to changing weather patterns and deteriorating soil conditions, pineapple plants have become more vulnerable, with growth and yields no longer meeting expectations, highlighting the need for more suitable farming solutions.
According to Mr. Vu Sui, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Thanh Thang Agricultural Cooperative in Hoa Luu Commune, weather and soil conditions are clearly affecting production.
“Varietal degeneration is currently the biggest challenge. The soil has also become less fertile after many years of cultivation. In addition, temperatures in recent years have at times reached 30-40°C, significantly higher than in the past, resulting in poorer plant growth,” he said.
Mr. Vu Sui, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Thanh Thang Agricultural Cooperative in Hoa Luu Commune, said that climate change and declining soil fertility are affecting the growth and development of pineapple plants. Photo: Van Vu.
In response to these challenges, MD2 pineapple has been recognized as a variety well suited to current climatic and soil conditions. The variety demonstrates strong vigor, good resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptability to the acidic soils and hot, humid climate of the Mekong Delta, while maintaining relatively stable yields.
According to production models, MD2 pineapple yields range from 50 to 60 tonnes per hectare. With contract purchase prices of VND 7,000-8,000 per kilogram, growers can earn annual incomes of approximately VND 100-150 million per hectare. This provides a stable source of income, helping improve farmers’ livelihoods and reduce production risks.
Beyond its economic benefits, the MD2 pineapple cultivation model also helps lower production costs through the use of agricultural mulch, which suppresses weeds and improves soil moisture retention. Farming practices have also been upgraded with more efficient use of fertilizers and crop protection products, reducing environmental impacts and aligning with the principles of sustainable and green agriculture.
Under contract farming arrangements, participating farmers are guaranteed market outlets through purchasing agreements with enterprises, helping stabilize product sales and minimize market price risks. This enables growers to invest in production with greater confidence and long-term planning.
MD2 pineapple is being cultivated in several specialized growing areas in Can Tho City and has demonstrated strong adaptability to the impacts of climate change. Photo: Van Vu.
Mr. Pham Van Dien, a farmer in Hoa Luu Commune, said that MD2 pineapple demonstrates strong growth and good resistance to pests and diseases, making cultivation easier and more reliable.
“MD2 pineapple plants are vigorous and less susceptible to diseases, so farmers can grow them with greater confidence. Once the plants are established, they produce uniform fruits and generate higher incomes,” he said.
Meanwhile, WestFood Hau Giang Joint Stock Company is expanding its MD2 pineapple raw material areas across several localities in Can Tho and neighboring regions. The company has currently developed approximately 150 hectares of pineapple production area and aims to expand this figure to at least 1,200 hectares by 2030.
Under this development strategy, around 50% of the cultivation area is expected to obtain GlobalG.A.P. certification and to move toward low-carbon production standards. These efforts are intended to meet export market requirements and align with the growing trend toward sustainable agricultural development.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, Chairwoman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the company, said the enterprise is focusing on expanding production areas in line with green agricultural standards.
“We are working closely with cooperatives to expand MD2 pineapple cultivation areas, promoting green production practices, reducing emissions, and improving economic returns for farmers,” she said.
Farmers in Hoa Luu Commune are confident in cultivating MD2 pineapple thanks to its strong growth performance and resilience. Photo: Van Vu.
According to Can Tho City’s agricultural sector, developing crop production models that adapt to climate change has become essential in the current context. MD2 pineapple is considered a suitable option due to its strong heat tolerance and ability to deliver stable economic returns.
$ 1 = VND 26,431 – Source: Vietcombank.
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