The central province of Thua Thien-Hue will invest VND1.19 trillion (US$52 million) through 12 projects as part of its plan to restructure its agricultural sector with a vision till 2020.

Local authorities said the projects aimed to enhance the value of local agricultural products through sustainable development.

A report by the local Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the projects would strengthen local advantages in agriculture. At the same time, they would be monitored closely to keep a check on environmental repercussions and the development of rural areas.

The projects include cultivation, husbandry, forestry, aquaculture, agricultural logistics and the processing industry.

One of the projects is the expansion of Thuan An fish port, where the harbour will be extended to accommodate more boats. Other projects include investments in aquaculture zones in Phong Dien, Phu Vang and Phu Loc districts.

It includes a forestation project along the province’s coastline to reduce water salination in paddy fields near the sea. Another such project by the local forestry division aims to plant trees that will yield more timber.

The cultivation and husbandry sectors will work to form muster zones for cultivation and cattle breeding. In other projects, local authorities are looking at pushing for organic cultivation and developing a safe agro-product supply chain.

Provincial officials expect an annual production of 320,000 tonnes of agro-products and 73,000 tonnes of seafood by 2020. With this yield, local farmers’ incomes are expected to double compared to what they earn today. — VNS