Improving soil health for the future of agriculture in Vietnam

The critical role of soil in Vietnam's future

As an agricultural nation, Vietnam’s economy is significantly influenced by soil health. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, more than 84% of Vietnam’s total natural land area is used for agricultural purposes.  

Soil quality has become a critical issue as cultivated land in Vietnam deteriorates due to overexploitation, unsustainable agricultural practices, and the widespread use and misuse of agricultural chemicals. Therefore, improving soil health is essential for the future of Vietnamese agriculture, alongside focusing on crop quality and productivity.

“Improving soil health is essential for the future of Vietnamese agriculture, aligning with the principles of regenerative agriculture and our ambition of growing a nature-positive food future.”

Ms. Huong Nguyen, Sustainability and Food Chain Manager

Organic solutions help improve soil health 

YaraSuna organic fertilizers, made from recovered organic waste, empower farmers to reuse recovered nutrients, thereby improving soil health and increasing crop resilience. The organic matter in these fertilizers maintains soil quality and nurtures beneficial soil microorganisms, positively impacting yield and enhancing crop resilience to mechanical and environmental stress.

Since YaraSuna’s launch in late 2023, more than 1,000 metric tons have been distributed in the market. YaraSuna organic mineral fertilizers have been successfully integrated into the crop nutrition program of one of our global food chain partners, enabling Vietnamese farmers to access these solutions and integrate them into their crop nutrition practices. The innovative approach of combining organic and mineral fertilizers at the start of the crop program has enhanced soil health and improved nutrient use efficiency while ensuring yield and quality. 

“YaraSuna organic fertilizers empower farmers to reuse recovered nutrients, improving soil health, increasing crop resilience, and supporting the circular economy in Vietnamese agriculture,” says Ms. Huong Nguyen, Sustainability and Food Chain Manager. 

Contributing to the circular economy 

In addition to improving soil health and increasing crop resilience, YaraSuna organic fertilizers support the circular economy. By recovering and utilizing existing nutrients, these organic fertilizers effectively recycle nutrients, helping to close the nutrient loop and establish a circular value chain in agriculture. Produced using eco-friendly European technology, the manufacturing process reduces CO2 emissions compared to traditional processes.

Looking ahead to more sustainable, integrated programs 

Yara Vietnam is collaborating with the Plant Protection Department and the Soils and Fertilizers Research Institute on an upcoming project to research and develop sustainable crop production models from 2024 to 2026 that integrate YaraSuna into broader smart crop nutrient management solutions. This approach is rooted in appropriate usage based on soil and plant type, the right dosage, correct timing, and the best application methods with the combination of organic and mineral fertilizers.  

The project’s first focus crop will be durians grown in Dak Nong province. Through demonstration plots and farmer training workshops, Yara will support the development and adoption of solutions to increase productivity in farming techniques, improve soil health management, and optimize crop nutrition.  

With innovative initiatives and the introduction of sustainable solutions like YaraSuna organic fertilizers, Yara is committed to enhancing soil health and supporting sustainable farming practices to help grow a nature-positive food future.