Expanding chili farming model in Lien Minh 2

In Lien Minh 2 Hamlet, Nhu Khe Commune, chili cultivation is emerging as an effective livelihood, helping many households increase their income and gradually achieve prosperity. A notable example is Hoang Dinh Phuc, the hamlet head, who has boldly shifted crop structures and achieved remarkable success.

With many years devoted to agriculture, Phuc recognized that chili plants are well-suited to the local soil conditions. In just the first three months of 2026, his family earned nearly VND 500 million from chili sales. However, his journey with this crop has not been without challenges. During the 2022–2023 season, he and his partners made significant investments but suffered losses due to limited market demand. Undeterred, in 2024 he changed strategy, proactively sought market connections, and continued investing, going as far as mortgaging his assets to secure production capital.

By applying improved techniques, particularly the use of Trichoderma fungi to protect plant roots, Phuc achieved a bumper harvest in the most recent season, earning about VND 1.4 billion from 6 hectares with stable prices. Rather than keeping his know-how to himself, he has actively shared his experience with other farmers, helping to expand the model locally.

Chili plants are currently an effective crop in Lien Minh 2 Hamlet, Nhu Khe Commune.

Across Nhu Khe Commune, chili cultivation now covers around 7 hectares, with Phuc’s family accounting for 4 hectares. Many other households have also begun switching from less efficient crops to chili, reporting encouraging results. For instance, Nguyen Thi Huong’s family earned VND 60 million from 1,000 square meters - significantly higher than previous returns from tea cultivation.

According to local authorities, the chili farming model not only boosts incomes but also reflects the dynamism and creativity of the rural economy. It is seen as an important foundation for Nhu Khe Commune to achieve its socio-economic development targets in the coming years.

Despite these gains, the total cultivated area remains below potential. The hamlet still has about 15 hectares of land suitable for chili, yet many farmers remain hesitant to expand production. Local authorities and pioneers like Phuc are continuing outreach efforts, offering technical support and guaranteed purchase agreements to build a concentrated chili-growing zone, aiming for sustainable development and improved livelihoods for the community.

Le Duy