Vietnam is a major rice exporter to the world and one of the most important agricultural centres in Asia Pacific. However, while societal expectations for high quality food are increasing, Vietnamese farmers are facing challenges such as a lack of arable land, as well as the challenges of climate change, weeds and diseases. To overcome the problems the new BASF AgSolutions Farm will showcase the latest technology and best practices from around the world to drive further innovation in farming in Vietnam, as well as sharing innovations with neighboring countries, including Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines. The AgSolutions Farm, aim to bring crop protection innovation and technical knowledge to the farmers and other industry players, so that they can increase their productivity in a sustainable manner. The facility will also cultivate partnerships between BASF and local universities and institutes to provide training and develop customized products and solutions to meet local growers’ needs.
BASF recently opened its AgSolutions Farm, a new agricultural solution research farm for crop protection products, in Cai Lay district, Tien Giang province, Vietnam. Located in the Mekong Delta region, a major production area for rice, vegetable and fruits, the facility will serve as a technical and training hub to help farmers and industry players increase yields and profitability, and to promote food safety and environmental protection. Demonstration plots and field trials at the center will also complement the work of BASF research farms around the world.
Tanachart Ralsiripong, Managing Director, BASF Vietnam added, “Vietnam is one of the fastest growing markets in Asia Pacific. By establishing the AgSolutions Farm in Tien Giang province, we will get closer to farmers, work to provide better services and contribute to sustainable agricultural development in Vietnam.”
BASF Crop Protection launched its direct business model in Vietnam in 2013 and has been active in major farming centers including Mekong Delta. It works with farmers, distribution partners and agriculture industry players to offer innovative solutions and product stewardship training to help them boost productivity and profitability. For example, Headline 100CS is an effective fungicide to help rice farmers protect their plants from disease, while preserving the aquatic environment. The product is also part of BASF’s AgCelence portfolio to increase yields and improve grain quality, resulting in higher revenues for farmers and better quality rice for consumers. In the next three years, BASF will launch a broader range of innovative products to effectively support the country’s sustainable agriculture.
