Ecological farming seen as key to upgrading agricultural products in global markets

According to Bernhard Schenke, Sales Director at Dalat Hasfarm, Da Lat’s agricultural sector is facing what he describes as a “dual technical requirement” — ensuring both product safety and environmental sustainability.

“Green agriculture in Da Lat is not only about protecting the environment but also a strategy to upgrade product value and build consumer trust,” Schenke said. He added that ecological farming helps meet demand for safe food while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, thereby easing pressure on soil, water and surrounding ecosystems.

Field observations in Da Lat show that many farmers are shifting from competing on volume and low prices to focusing on higher-value production.

Cao Van Huy, an organic chili grower in Lam Vien - Da Lat Ward, said his farm has adopted integrated pest management practices, replacing chemical inputs with biological solutions such as natural predators, bio-traps and organic pesticides.

“This approach reduces dependence on agricultural inputs, minimizes environmental risks, and improves soil quality,” Huy said, noting that the shift was driven by concerns over both farmer health and consumer safety, as well as rising demand for traceable produce.

Similarly, Nguyen Thanh Phuong, an organic vegetable farmer in Cam Ly - Da Lat Ward, said green agriculture is no longer optional.

“It is not just a trend but a technical requirement for market access,” he said, adding that certifications such as VietGAP and GlobalGAP have helped Da Lat’s agricultural products gain credibility and competitive advantage in both domestic and international markets.

Schenke emphasized that the transition toward greener farming systems is becoming central to building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, particularly amid challenges such as climate change and resource depletion.

He noted that ecological agriculture plays a critical role in protecting not only natural resources but also the health of both producers and consumers within the agricultural value chain.