November 2024 project visit showcases progress and public engagement in organic rice farming.
From 6th to 7th of November 2024, the OrganoRice consortium held an internal workshop in Vietnam as part of a broader project mission that combined scientific collaboration, field data collection, and public outreach. This milestone event marked the continuation of intensive fieldwork in the Mekong Delta provinces of Vinh Long, An Giang, and Dong Thap, and highlighted the project’s growing public relevance.
The workshop brought together Vietnamese and German partners to share results and coordinate activities across the various research topics of the project. Findings from three consecutive growing seasons were discussed, including promising outcomes in variety trials, fertilization treatments, pest and disease control, and rice quality assessment.
During the visit, the project teams also conducted multiple training sessions in various disciplines and gathered new field data while working closely with local cooperatives and government authorities. While challenges in scaling organic models—particularly in Vinh Long—were openly discussed, new conversion areas in Dong Thap showed strong support and tangible progress toward organic certification.
A highlight of the mission was the public presentation of project results to stakeholders in organic rice production, including representatives from DARDs, the private sector, and farmer organizations. The discussions emphasized market challenges, including price differences and transition risks, but also introduced practical solutions like the stepwise reduction of mineral fertilizer and use of “Safe Rice” standards.
In parallel, research teams reported on remote sensing advancements, post-harvest quality monitoring, and socio-economic findings, while preparations began for the 2025 international workshop. As the project enters its final phase, partners reaffirmed their commitment to creating a resilient and scientifically grounded framework for organic rice production in the Mekong Delta and beyond.
