JICA continues to implement the Japanese white garlic cultivation model in Na Ngoi commune (Nghe An province).

The ceremony to launch the garlic planting project and provide equipment was attended by representatives from the Nghe An Department of Agriculture and Environment, the Provincial Agricultural Extension Center, commune leaders, and nearly 30 beneficiary households.

This is a concrete step in the "Developing the Sanuki Garlic Value Chain in Nghe An" Project, phase 2023-2026, under the Japanese Government's program to support small and medium-sized enterprises towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At the ceremony, JICA and Farmers' Co-op handed over to Na Ngoi commune an irrigation system, plows, seed preservation equipment, and many modern production tools, helping people access advanced farming processes.

According to JICA representatives, the synchronized transfer of both equipment and technology will help ensure irrigation water supply, improve land preparation, and extend seed storage time, thereby enhancing productivity and product quality – a weakness in highland agricultural production. In addition to providing technology, the project also brings Japanese agricultural experts to directly guide farmers on technical matters, combining hands-on training to ensure the model operates effectively and sustainably.

Mr. Ta Quang Sang, Director of the Nghe An Agricultural Extension Center, said: "The special feature of this model is that the Sanuki garlic variety (also known as Japanese white garlic) was selected for cultivation in Nghe An. This is a famous garlic variety from the Kagawa region (Japan), with large bulbs, uniform cloves, a mild aroma, a mild spicy taste, and rich in nutrients, especially high in allicin – a substance that has antibacterial effects, strengthens immunity, and lowers cholesterol. Sanuki garlic is also highly valued in the pharmaceutical industry and high-end food processing."

Thanks to its superior nutritional value, Japanese white garlic sells for 3-5 times the price of regular garlic and is favored by demanding markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Europe. Introducing this garlic variety for trial cultivation in the mountainous region of Nghe An not only opens up new production avenues but also contributes to diversifying high-value cash crops.

According to JICA experts, the cool winter climate and clean soil, with minimal chemical contamination, in Na Ngoi commune are favorable conditions for growing Sanuki garlic.

The model, which was previously tested and proven successful, is now being further implemented. The partner not only focuses on cultivation but also aims to build a complete value chain – from seed selection, farming, harvesting, preservation to consumption – according to Japanese standards. If successful, Nghe An white garlic could be certified for export or serve the high-end domestic market, increasing the value of agricultural products from the highlands.

Many households expressed enthusiasm for receiving support in the form of equipment, seeds, and new techniques. Some households have signed commitments to participate in the model and registered to grow garlic.

For the Hmong people of Na Ngoi commune – where the majority of income still depends on slash-and-burn farming – the JICA project holds special significance. The shift to growing Sanuki garlic not only increases productivity but also changes the production mindset from self-sufficiency to a commodity-based approach linked to the value chain. Each hectare of garlic, if yielding 8-10 tons, can generate 3-4 times more income than corn or upland rice. More importantly, the model helps people stabilize their livelihoods, reduces the rate of young laborers leaving their hometowns, and contributes to border security.

Mr. Kobayashi Yosuke, Chief Representative of the JICA Vietnam Office, affirmed: “We hope that the people of Na Ngoi commune will not only receive equipment and technology, but also access new production thinking, viewing agriculture as a sector that can create high and sustainable value.”

Earlier, during a meeting with the People's Committee of Nghe An province, Vice Chairman Nguyen Van De expressed his gratitude and affirmed that the province would continue to create favorable conditions for JICA to expand the project in the fields of high-tech agriculture, irrigation, and livelihoods for ethnic minorities.

Over the years, JICA has implemented numerous programs to support Nghe An province, such as the Project for Restoration and Sustainable Management of Protective Forests, the Project for Upgrading the Northern Nghe An Irrigation System, and programs to enhance capacity for responding to climate change. The shift towards supporting livelihoods, particularly with the Sanuki garlic cultivation model, is seen as a practical step to connect economic development with sustainable poverty reduction.

According to the plan, after the pilot phase in Na Ngoi commune, the model will be replicated in several other communes, aiming to form a specialized agricultural production area for the Mong people associated with the brand "Nghe An White Garlic".

The JICA project in Na Ngoi commune is not only about providing equipment and technical support, but also a message of sustainable cooperation and the Japanese partner's belief in the potential for the people of western Nghe An province to improve their lives. This project also demonstrates JICA's persistent cooperation in implementing projects in a remote and disadvantaged commune of Nghe An province.