Lam Dong, 29 October 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Lam Dong Province, organized a working session on Agroecological Transition under Output 2.2 of the project “Integrated Sustainable Landscape Management through a Deforestation-Free Jurisdiction Approach in Lam Dong and Dak Nong, Viet Nam” (iLandscape Project), funded by the European Union (EU).

The event brought together representatives from central and provincial government agencies, production cooperatives, enterprises, and research institutions to exchange perspectives and share practical solutions to advance agroecological transformation in the province.

Participants agreed that Lam Dong plays a crucial role in Viet Nam’s agricultural production, with the country’s largest cultivation areas for coffee, mulberry, vegetables, and flowers—significantly contributing to national exports. However, with steep terrain, high rainfall, and long-standing intensive farming practices focused on yield, a transition toward agroecological approaches is urgently needed to protect soil resources, sustain productivity, and ensure environmental balance.

According to Mr. Le Ngoc Nam from the Plant Protection Department, “Agroecology is an inevitable and sustainable trend that harmonizes production, the environment, and society.”

Dr. Pham Van Hoi from the Viet Nam National University of Agriculture noted that Lam Dong’s widespread monocropping on sloped and rain-prone land has led to soil degradation and reduced productivity, underscoring the need to prioritize agroecological practices.

Mr. Ha Minh Tuan from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) presented research-based recommendations to promote agroecology in Lam Dong, emphasizing the importance of strengthening policy support for farmers, developing demonstration models, and enhancing stakeholder collaboration.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dao The Anh, Vice President of the Viet Nam Rural Development Science Association, suggested that the province develop a feasible Agroecological Development Plan, highlighting the value of the Agroecology Network in fostering partnerships, communication, and knowledge exchange to accelerate green transformation at the local level.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Phuc, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Lam Dong Province, affirmed: “Lam Dong is committed to piloting, assessing, standardizing, and scaling up agroecological models linked with digital transformation, product traceability, and market requirements to enhance the value and sustainability of agricultural production.”

Mr. Do Trong Hoan, Project Manager, iLansdcape Project, UNDP Viet Nam, emphasized: “Through the iLandscape project, UNDP will continue to accompany Lam Dong Province in piloting, integrating, and scaling up agroecological models contributing to sustainable agriculture, natural resource protection, and improved livelihoods for local communities.”

This initiative marks a significant step in promoting agroecological transition and sustainable landscape management in Lam Dong, one of Viet Nam’s pioneering provinces in advancing a green and sustainable agricultural future..