Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development CARD Project Progress Report 050/04VIE: Improvement of export and domestic markets for Vietnamese fruit through improved post-harvest and supply chain management MS2: FIRST SIX-MONTHLY REPORT December 2005 1 Institute Information Project Name Improvement of export and domestic markets for Vietnamese fruit through improved post-harvest and supply chain management Vietnamese Institution Southern Sub-Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Post-Harvest Technology (SIAEP) Vietnamese Project Team Leader Mr Nguyen Duy Duc, M Eng Australian Organisation Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI & F) Australian Personnel Mr Robert Nissen; Dr Peter Hofman Mr Brett Tucker; Mr Roland Holmes Mss Marlo Rankin Date commenced June 2005 Completion date (original) May 2008 Completion date (revised) June 2008 Reporting period Inception Report:- 1st Six-monthly report June 2005 to December 2005 Contact Officer(s) In Australia: Team Leader Mr Robert Nissen Name: Project Leader Position: Organisation Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI & F) In Australia: Administrative contact Michelle Robbins Senior Planning Officer (Emerging Technologies) Organisation Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI & F) In Vietnam Name: Position: Name: Telephone: Fax: Email: +61 07 54449631 +61 07 54412235 bob.nissen@dpi.qld.gov.au Telephone: Fax: +61 07 3346 2711 +61 07 3346 2727 Email: michelle@robbins@dpi.qld.gov.au Mr Nguyen Duy Duc, Telephone: +84 (8) 8481151 Director SIAEP Position: Organisation Southern Sub-Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Post-Harvest Technology (SIAEP) Fax: Email: +84 (8) 8438842 siaep@hcm.vnn.vn Project Abstract The fruit industry in Vietnam has a great potential and plays an important role in agricultural production Vietnam is experiencing difficulties in competing with other Asian nations in export markets and its own domestic market, especially with China and Thailand This suggests that horticultural industries require substantial development to be globally competitive This project aims to fill capacity gaps and reduce major weaknesses in pre-and post-harvest technology, product quality and consistency, cluster organisation and supply chain management and planning Highly specialised targeted training programs for government and industry stakeholders will be provided This project addresses serious constraints through identifying key Vietnamese stakeholders and empowering them to focusing on the total supply chain network, and identifying where benefits are to be gained In addition, if quality management systems are implemented, greater employment will be provided for the farming community This project embraces the five CARD strategies for rural development; and in particular; strategies to increase production and competitiveness of agricultural systems; reduce poverty and vulnerability, and increase stakeholder participation whilst ensuring sustainability Executive Summary Significant information gathering on mango and pomelo internationally, country wide and locally has been initiated by Australian and Vietnamese collaborators Globalisation is having an affect on agribusiness practices causing significant and dramatic change It is imperative that these factors be taken into account during this project Significant linkages to other CARD Projects have been made with discussions being held with the Hort Research Dragon Fruit Project manager Mr John Campbell as well as the AADCP Program Stream: Quality Assurance Systems for ASEAN Fruit and Vegetables Five workshops were designed and presented to collaborators SOFRI and SIAEP in November 2005 A further six workshops on this CARD project, aims, objectives and benefits to stakeholders were also held in November 2005 for potential project stakeholders and farmer groups Workshops were conducted to inform potential stakeholders of project aims, objectives and benefits to smallholders who will participate in this CARD Project Discussions with farmer groups, collectors and traders were well received Significant problems exist at the farmer level with pre-harvest production issues Problems in obtaining high quality fruit due to tree size, pest and disease control management systems and lack of quality control systems at the farm level were identified A workshop to discuss projects constraints and impediments, and proposed methodologies for meeting the next monthly objectives for this project was conducted Processes and details on the strategic planning for the operational delivery of technical training programs in the value chain that supports the growth of Vietnamese domestic and export markets for mangos and pomelos were discussed Books purchased from Australian funds were presented to Vietnamese collaborators at SIAEP, SOFRI and Nha Trang All material supplied is under copyright of QDPI&F but relevant information will be extracted and incorporated into manuals that are applicable to Vietnamese conditions New books will be developed and written in Vietnamese for both the mango and citrus (pomelo) industries in Vietnam as per the CARD project log frame One electronic copy of the Agrilink Mango Information Kit produced by DPI&F has been translated into Vietnamese’s and handed to SIAEP and SOFRI staff to conduct training of stakeholders in Vietnam Regular meetings have been held with Australian project team members as well as regular information exchanges via email with Vietnamese collaborators to determine if changes are needed to be made to the objectives, outputs and activities These meetings determined that the process outlined in the approved CARD Project document is still valid and no change is needed These meetings also determined the processes to obtain good agricultural practices (GAP) and development of best practice manuals (BPM) for pre and post harvest production, supply chain development and management, for mango and pomelo Both, Australian and Vietnamese collaborators were in agreement, that Adult Learning Processes, such as the use of Participatory Action Learning (PAL) and Train the Trainer (TTT) is the most appropriate methods to use Train the trainer (TTT) will ensure that new concepts and methodologies (knowledge, information and training tools) provided by the Australian team members to collaborating Vietnamese institutes (SOFRI and SIAEP) will improve the projects effectiveness and sustainability by providing a resource through which the Vietnamese mango and pomelo industries can utilise Pollution is a problem, particularly in the Mekong Delta The culture and attitudes of the farming population and villages, especially the poor need to be changed To reduce environmental degradation, villages need to be educated IMP strategies to reduce of agricultural pesticide use and maximise the use of biological and cultural controls, rather than a strict chemical control method is needed Chemicals must play a supportive rather than dominant role Pesticides should be used strictly when needed, as determined by pest monitoring systems and natural enemies encouraged providing a means of control The use of selective, nondisruptive chemicals must be preferred over broad-spectrum chemicals that can create an in-balance in orchards The market opportunities created by doi moi have stimulated the diversification of agricultural production and the development of Vietnam’s agro-industries In agricultural, forestry and fishery production, women participate in farming with production based on village/family units with all family members contributing to preharvest management Vietnam is a poor country in which 80 percent of the population lives in the rural areas Women account for the majority in rural population (about 52%) and rural workforce (52-54%) Thus women make great contribution to rural economic growth Introduction & Background The Vietnamese government set a target of reaching US$1 billion in exports by 2010 Eleven fruits are reported to have export potential including mango and pomelo However, drops in exports by 30% reveal a need to develop competitive supply chains due to wider global trends and competition with China and Thailand (VCNI, USAID Report 2003 & Ford et al., (2003)) Ford et al., (2003) analysed the competitiveness of fruit industries of Vietnam and identified poor and unstable product quality, no quality standards, poor post-harvest technologies and pre-harvest practices, lack of group or co-operative marketing structures and little information about supply, prices and customer needs as serious constraints to the development of fruit and vegetable industries in Vietnam This project addresses these serious constraints through identifying key Vietnamese stakeholders from both the government and industry sectors It will then engage and empower them by focusing on the total supply chain network, and identifying where benefits are to be gained The project will fill capacity gaps and reduce major weaknesses in post-harvest technology, product quality and consistency, cluster organisation and supply chain management and planning This project will also provide highly specialised targeted training programs appropriate for government and industry stakeholders The proposed approach involves a whole of supply chain or cluster approach, driven by identification of consumer needs (domestic and export) for the mango and pomelo, building on published and unpublished research work and incorporates advanced technology transfer to improve pre- and post-harvest quality of mangoes and pomelo, while at the same time attempting to improve farm incomes by empowering growers to form groups The key components are: • • Selection of the key stakeholders and identification of key pre and post-harvest and cultural constraints Mapping and identifying strengths and weaknesses in existing domestic and export chains for mango and pomelo, with particular • • emphasis on determining consumer preferences and needs, and feeding results back to farmers Developing improved export and domestic supply chains for mango and pomelo Setting up of new, improved farmer groups/organisations for exporting The ‘training the trainer’ approach has been only been partially successful in transferring technology due to the variability in technical understanding and performance of the extension officers (George et al., 2004) Therefore, we believe that it will be highly essential that farmers also receive full training Training will be conducted through workshops, small group processes, demonstration blocks and individually The beneficiaries are mango and pomelo supply chain members – farmers, traders, transporters, wholesalers, exporters, and consumers There are also indirect benefits to Government Staff, through a better understanding of supply chain function, and through advanced technology transfer as well as the strengthening of cooperative relationships between SIAEP, SOFRI, Vinafruit and the Agriculture Departments of three provinces etc., and improved technical expertise through international linkages It is envisaged that trained specialists, capable of undertaking industry analysis and possessing the practical ability to identify problems areas in the supply chains They will have the ability to deliver knowledge in supply chain management The will need to also solve supply chain problems to enhance Vietnamese Fruit Industries Also greater cooperation, cohesiveness, improved practices along the supply chain providing an increased financial benefit to all participants for the small farmers, to the exporter to the retailer In terms of risk management, there should be little risk in transferring appropriate technology (pre- and post-harvest management techniques), as long as due consideration is given to the capacity of farmers to adapt such technology to use on their own farms In addition, integrated pest and disease management systems should lead to decreased pesticide residues, and improve human health and better environmental outcomes We are therefore promoting biological control and bioproducts by applying best management practices Progress to Date 5.1 Implementation Highlights INFORMATION GATHERING Due to fast changing nature of agribusiness practices, primarily due to globalisation affects, it has been imperative from the projects perspective and inception, that identification of new information published on: • mango and pomelo pre- and post-harvest production and marketing issues • agricultural supply chains (analysis, development processes, and design) be included in this project Generic supply chain analysis and development processes have changed recently to one of creating value for participants in the supply chain, therefore supply chains are now being transformed into value chains Some examples of information sourced:• FAO stats on mango and pomelo production, tonnages, exports and imports, consumption patterns for Asia and major producing countries in the world (study effects on Vietnamese mango and pomelo industries and competitive analysis as per CARD Project log frame) • DPI&F articles, greater than 23 articles on pre-and post-harvest aspects of mango and citrus production (Information to be used for development of preand post-harvest manuals and quality assurance manuals) • Over 50 web published articles and presentation on supply chain analysis, processes and design reviewed from USA and Europe and Australia o For example Australian material on supply chains:National Food Industry strategy- Food Chain Capability Development Program (Australian) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Agri-product Supply Chain management in Developing Countries ,workshop proceedings Bali, Indonesia, 19-22nd August, 2003 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) Supply Chain Management – Building partnerships and alliances in international food and agribusiness, April, 2001 Furthermore, Vietnamese documents such as the Vietnamese Agricultural Planning document, Socioeconomic documents identified, sourced and relevant information extracted For example:• Vietnam’s trade policies 1998, Centre for International Economics Canberra & Sydney December 1998 • Master plan for Agricultural Research in Vietnam UNDP/FAO VIE 98/019.08 Hanoi, June 2001 • Fruit and Vegetables in Vietnam-Adding Value from Farmer to Consumer, July 2002, prepared by the International Food Policy Research Institute • The regional Poverty Assessment Mekong River Region, March 2004, prepared by UNDP and AUSAID • A guide to Identifying Market Opportunities for Rural Smallholder Producers, a Rural Agro-Enterprise Development Project, International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) Much of this research was undertaken by the Australia team to ensure up to date information is sourced, extracted and compiled for inclusion in training material and to improve the knowledge base of the Vietnamese collaborators Similarly, our Vietnamese’s collaborators are also identifying, sourcing, and evaluating published material suitable for inclusion in this CARD Project This information being sourced will ensure that this CARD project will build capacity in the Vietnamese collaborators By removing out of date information, decisions are based on reliable and up to date information, therefore ensuring sustainable CARD project outcomes PROJECT LINKAGES Linkages to other projects and these include:Agency Project No Project Title Adaptation of low-chill temperate fruit to Australia and Thailand Project initiated in 1996 and completed in 1999 Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) PN94/947 Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) PN2127 Adaptation of low-chill temperate fruits to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Australia Project initiated in 2001 and completed in June 2004 Extension initiated in June 2004 and work is continuing in Thailand and Laos World Vision Project CTE/2000/165 Facilitating farmer uptake of ACIAR project results: temperate fruit orchards for quality of life development in Chiang Rai province This project is continuing but urgently needs technical support by DPI&F to be successful New South Wales Department of Agriculture PHT/2002/086 Improving post harvest quality of temperate fruits in Vietnam and Australia Project initiated in June 2004 CIAT ADP/2001/066 Strengthening agricultural market information activities in Vietnam UQ School for Natural Resources CARD Project Improving the performance of the fruit industry in the Tien Giang and Tra Vinh Provinces in Mekong Delta AADCP Program Stream Project Design Document –May 2004 Quality Assurance Systems for ASEAN Fruit and Vegetables ADB Project VIE-1781 Development project of tea and fruits, MARD, Asian Development Bank Ministry of Science and Technology NA Collaboration of post-harvest handling and fruit market promotion between Vietnam and Thailand HortResearch Dragon Fruit Project HortResearch has initiated a two year project in Vietnam, funded by AusAID This project is to help the local Dragon Fruit industry develop Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) systems and allow them to achieve accreditation to EUREPGAP standards This will enable the Vietnamese dragon fruit industry to export fruit to the high-value European market Whilst at SOFRI in south Vietnam in November 2005, Mr Nissen, Mr Tucker and Miss Rankin made contact with Mr John Campbell of HortResearch Mr Campbell was conducting training on Quality Assurance in the Dragon Fruit Supply Chain Brief discussions held between Mr Nissen and Mr Campbell on project outlines of quality assurance training to be undertaken in each project A verbal agreement was made to undertake further communications and develop information flows between both projects on quality assurance aspects AADCP Program Stream Project AADCP Program Stream: Quality Assurance Systems for ASEAN Fruit and Vegetables The quality assurance aspects and issues in this project have been incorporated and modified for this CARD project with permission from the AADCP Program Stream Project personnel QDPI&F personnel have developed the quality assurance training manuals and processes as well as carrying out quality assurance training in Vietnam Linkage with this project has ensured that a united message is being delivered to all Vietnamese collaborators This avoids mixed messages being delivered, removing any confusion as to what constitutes quality assurance This project linkage will ensure sustainability outcomes for this CARD project TRAINING UNDERTAKEN AND CAPACITY BUILDING Australian Personnel Travel Three Australian personnel travelled to Vietnam for a scheduled project visit of two weeks Team members were Mr Nissen Mr Tucker, Mss Rankin The trip was undertaken in late November 2005 (14th to 29th November) to conduct training workshops, on methodologies and approaches to undertake supply chain analysis • what is a supply chain? • how to segment a supply chian to obtain information on product, information, monetary and quality flows along the supply chain • quality monitoring and sampling along the supply chain • interview techniques and questionnaire design, team building exercises and conflict resolution methodology and processes TRAINING WORKSHOPS Five workshops were designed and presented to collaborators SOFRI and SIAEP in November 2005 A further six workshops on this CARD project, aims, objectives and benefits to stakeholders were also held in November 2005 for potential project stakeholders and farmer groups in • Tein Gian Province • Vinh Long Province • Khanh Hoa Province • and Ho Chi Minh City Region (See 5.2 Smallholder Benefits) Capacity building workshops were conducted in Ho Chi Minh City for staff of SIAEP and SOFRI in November 2005 (See section 5.3 Capacity Building) MATERIAL SUPPLIED AND INFORMATION EXCHANGED Books purchased from Australian funds were presented to Vietnamese collaborators at SIAEP, SOFRI and Nha Trang All material supplied is under copyright of QDPI&F but relevant information will be extracted and incorporated into manuals that are applicable to Vietnamese conditions New books will be developed and written in Vietnamese for both the mango and citrus (pomelo) industries in Vietnam as per the CARD project log frame Information to be supplied will provide workshop outlines, and topics will include details on pre-and post-harvest production and marketing issues as well as supply chain management 10 Several important components make up a practical IPM program These include: • identification of pests and their natural enemies • monitoring of pests and their natural enemies • data recording and reporting • decision making Electronic Books and Information Provided The good the bug and the ugly Citrus Pests and their natural Enemies, Integrated Pest Management in Australia CD ROMS Three copies of this is a CD ROM based information guide that complements the citrus field guide book which incorporates integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for citrus in Queensland and Australia were sent to Vietnam Agrlink Citrus on Line CD ROMS Three copies of this CR ROM based book that provides a comprehensive guide to the growing and marketing of citrus in Queensland and Australia was sent to Vietnam Sections Covered are: • What you need to know before you start growing citrus • Growing and marketing a commercial crop • Important citrus growing and marketing decisions • Further reading and other sources of information • Registered chemicals for pests and diseases • Detailed information on the seven most important pests of Queensland citrus • Frequently asked questions about growing and marketing • Guide to problem identification and solutions • Directory of important product and service provide • Monthly calendar of events for growing citrus • Search for your topic of interest • Detailed information on the five most important diseases of Queensland citrus Translated Electronic Version Agrilnk Mango Information Kit Electronic Translation of DPI&F Agrilnk Mango Information Kit into Vietnamese One electronic copy of the Agrilink Mango Information Kit produced by DPI&F has been translated into Vietnamese’s and handed to SIAEP and SOFRI staff to conduct training of stakeholders in Vietnam 5.2 Smallholder Benefits The following workshops were conducted to inform potential stakeholders of project aims, objectives and benefits to smallholders who will participate in this CARD Project Discussions with farmer groups, collectors and traders were well received Significant problems exist at the farmer level with pre-harvest production issues 14 Problems in obtaining high quality fruit due to tree size, pest and disease control management systems and lack of quality control systems at the farm level were identified For example, less than 20% of the total mango crop is of high quality, retailing at 50,000 VND to 60, 000 VND in Ho Chi Minh City, therefore any improvement in pre and post harvest handling should have a significant impact on framer and supply chain participant returns If value is created in the early stages of the supply chain, returns should be significantly increased and all chain participants from the retailer down to the grower will benefit, but only if the increased economic returns are passed on and not held by one chain participant All groups visited were enthusiastic about participating in this project Particularly, one newly formed group of farmers This group have no marketing contacts or a system to marketing their fruit It is envisaged that this project will provide the necessary contacts and systems to move their fruit through the supply/value chain, thus creating improved economic returns for the group Visits undertaken in November 2005 were: • Tien Giang Province o Cai Lay district, Cam Thanh mango cooperative o Cai Be district, Hoa Loc cooperative o Cai Be district, mango fruit collectors • Vinh Long Province o Hoang Gia pomelo company and pomelo farms • Khanh Hoa province o Nha Trang stakeholders o farmers/traders/managers of Emu exports trading company Further stakeholders workshops were held at SIAEP headquarters 25 stakeholders in the mango and pomelo supply chains attended including: • Vinafruit • Fruit and Vegetable Export Company No • Fruit exporting companies such as the Bao Thanh Co., Ltd., Mr.Ly Hai Lon • Retail and wholesale stores, METRO • Representatives of MARD, DARD • Nong Lam University (Mrs Giac Tam, Pham Thi Gai) • Several typical farmers (Mr Khuong Buu Hong Galaxy Farms, Mr Tam Nguyen pomelo grower) and several cooperatives farming groups Several stakeholders have contacted both the CARD Project Australian and Vietnamese team members to forge closer linkages They also wished to obtain further details and information on this CARD project objectives and processes to be undertaken to build a more competitive and sustainable supply (value) chains for their products in Vietnam 5.3 Capacity Building Five capacity workshops were conducted by the Australian team during the first project visit in November 2005 to build capacity in SIAEP and SOFRI in Ho Chi Minh City Adult learning techniques via participatory action learning processes were used to deliver workshop training sessions Workshops delivered were:15 WORKSHOP Overview Introduced the projects aim and address serious constraints for mango and pomelo through identifying key Vietnamese stakeholders and introduce collaborators to the concept of supply chains that create value (a value chain) These workshops provided an understanding on how to analysis or divide the supply chain into segments for analyse and to identify critical issues A process was devised provided to collaborators on how to achieve the project aim, and secure benefits from new improved supply chains and processes that are to be undertaken during the project Outcome This workshop was well received by all participants After workshop questioning and word of mouth feedback conveyed to trainers, participants indicated that they now possessed and clear picture the project aims and objectives They also indicated that the methodology and processes that will be used during this project is something new and they are keen to understand more about these new processes WORKSHOP Overview This workshop was conducted on value chain (Supply Chain) and covered the concepts and processes on how to engage stakeholders and conflict resolution Topics included: • Introduction to supply chain management themes • Action learning activity – participants map out perceived supply chains (product, quality, info flow etc.) and discuss issues associated with skills and knowledge gap • Identification of supply chain gaps and these how gaps can be filled through project activities • Discussing activities and set realistic timeframes for achievement Methodologies and processes were based on: • having all participants in the supply (value) chain at one level • development an understanding of group dynamics and human nature • development of a problems solving method to resolve issues between participants • finding solutions that satisfy the key and committed supply (value) chain participants • increasing the exchange of information between participants • increasing the returns to supply (value) chain participants by satisfying consumer preferences with high quality fruit that provides value for money Outcome Surveying and questioning of participants who attended workshops revealed that this concept is a totally new way of understanding the management of horticultural products (mango and pomelo) Further workshops are need to build on this concept to enable participants to have a greater understanding on how to approach and build supply (value) chains that will deliver improved benefits to all key participants in the chain 16 WORKSHOP Overview Questionnaire design and interview techniques to help Vietnamese collaborators (SIAEP and SOFRI) better understand agricultural value chains (supply chains) • introduce concepts of questionnaires design and interview techniques • Practical demonstrations on types of questions and how to administer interviews • Discuss production of manuals as per project milestones • Interview skills and methods to process data Outcome This workshop was very well received by participants and surveying and questioning of participants revealed that they had just undertaken a survey of Vietnamese Fruit Industries to obtain based data on pre and post harvest activities Participants indicated that this workshop had been conducted in the early part of this year so their survey and questionnaire designs to gather information on the Vietnamese Fruit Industries could have been significantly improved WORKSHOP Overview Quality assurance, monitoring and sequential sampling to help Vietnamese collaborators (SIAEP and SOFRI) better understand quality management systems for agricultural value chains (supply chains) • introduce concepts of quality flow and sequential sampling and set up trials • discuss production of manuals as per project milestones This workshop builds upon the AADCP Program Stream: Quality Assurance Systems for ASEAN Fruit and Vegetables project by building a quality assurance system for the Vietnamese Mango and Pomelo Industries Outcome Surveying and questioning of workshop participants was undertaken via an information format Participants indicated that that they always thought of quality assurance in terms of tangible attributes and this workshop broadened their knowledge to also include intangible aspects such as food safety, convenience, environmental management, worker welfare, and sustainable production systems to name a few Further training workshops will be designed and undertaken in this CARD Project to build a quality assurance system for the Vietnamese’s Mango and Pomelo Industries WORKSHOP Overview This was a planning workshop to discuss projects constraints and impediments, and proposed methodologies for meeting the next monthly objectives for this project Processes and details on the strategic planning for the operational delivery of technical training programs in the value chain that supports the growth of Vietnamese domestic and export markets for mangos and pomelos were discussed Methodologies to be evaluated include: Characterisation and analysis of the existing supply chain for mango and pomelo For example, product flows and audit of infrastructure (e.g storage facilities, temperature control, transport trucks types etc.), 17 quality flow (audit of product for appearance, freshness, packaging, bruising, etc.), information flows and monetary flows and development of future training workshops on post-harvest handling, packaging and ripening All workshops will then be reviewed with the intention to progress development of best practice manuals Outcome All project members participated in this workshop which delivered the planning activities for the next months of the CARD Project (see section next critical steps for list of outcomes) 5.4 Publicity One Australian press release has been drafted for release in January 2006 This draft is to be sent to Hassall and Associates for passing on to the CARD Project Management Committee for approval It is expected to release a further two press articles which will be released in the first half on next year (2006) detailing work completed, progress made and outcomes achieved by both the Vietnamese and Australian team members It is envisaged that a project web site be developed by our Vietnamese collaborators to gain greater exposure for the project There has been a significant increase in new technology with many Vietnamese research institutes (government) and private companies (i.e exporters/importers etc.,) and international organisations as well as researchers around the world having access to the web This is one the cheapest, quickest and most reliable methods to provide up to date information on the progress of this CARD project 5.5 Project Management Planning and project development The methodology to be used in managing this CARD project was developed initially with the Vietnamese collaborators (SIAEP and SOFRI) Regular meetings have been held with Australian project team members as well as regular information exchanges via email with Vietnamese collaborators to determine if changes are needed to be made to the objectives, outputs and activities These meetings determined that the process outlined in the approved CARD Project document is still valid and no change is needed This was also confirmed during the first project visit to Vietnam in November These meetings also determined the processes to obtain good agricultural practices (GAP) and development of best practice manuals (BPM) for pre and post harvest production, supply chain development and management, for mango and pomelo Training process to be used in this CARD project, were discussed between Australian team members at meetings and with the Vietnamese collaborating agencies via email and during the first project trip in November 2005 All were in agreement, that Adult Learning Processes, such as the use of Participatory Action Learning (PAL) and Train the Trainer (TTT) is the most appropriate methods to use Adults learn quickly by doing or carrying out tasks PAL reinforces principles and concepts conveyed during 18 short theoretical sessions The practical sessions involve problem solving whilst applying the concepts and principles learned TTT will ensure that new concepts and methodologies (knowledge, information and training tools) provided by the Australian team members to collaborating Vietnamese institutes (SOFRI and SIAEP) will improve the projects effectiveness and sustainability by providing a resource through which the Vietnamese mango and pomelo industries can utilise To ensure the concept and methodology for understanding supply/value chains that will be utilised during this project is understood by CARD management committee, collaborating Vietnamese Institutes and project participants, and the Australian team members, an outlined is provided below Methodology for problem solving and project management of Supply/Value Chains In any society the availability and costs of food are closely linked with many of areas of the countries society La Gra (1990) states that decisions, of what to produce and in what quantities are linked to many disciplines, including economics, sociology, politics, health engineering, agronomy, entomology, pathology, food science and other, interact to contribute to the understanding and functioning of a food system (Figure 1) Several key factors such as markets and environment play critical roles Matching the product to the market (what consumers are demanding), and matching the product to the growing environment) will provide food systems with a starting point to create value for all involved Figure Participants in a Value Chain (La Gra 1990) We need to ask ourselves these basic questions when evaluating or studying a value chain Who? How? What? When? Where? Why? and how much?, of a specific product/commodity we need to produce to fill the market demand Therefore we 19 need to have a process to identify key points and participants in the value chain Decisions made by the private sector participants are normally determined by the desire gain economic security Decision made by the public sector participants are guided by a large number of socioeconomic and non economic decisions It is important to understand wrong decisions or problems occurring in the pre harvest stage of the value chain will significantly affect food availability, quantity, quality and ultimately its cost If we start with a poor cultivar that is unmarketable, or poor planting material, or poor pre-harvest management systems (deficient nutritional or irrigation practices), poor harvesting systems, poor packaging and handling systems on the farm, very little can be done to correct these deficiencies in the post-harvest stage such cooling, pre-ripening, new improved packaging, or new marketing systems This will only result in both loss of product in term of quantity, quality and monetary or financial loss It is easier and more cost efficient to correct product/commodity deficiencies in the pre-harvest stage (Figure 2) Figure Causes of pre- and post-harvest losses at different stages in the value chain (La Gra 1990) Therefore it is critical that problems are clearly identified and you look in the right places and ask the right questions La Gra (1990) emphasise the process of a 20 multidiscipliniary team approach to identify the relevant stages in the value chain These are, pre-harvest and post harvest This is then broken down into: • Pre production • Production • Post-harvest • Marketing and distribution These components are then further broken down into 26 components, but not all of the components are relevant to each product /commodity (Figure 3) Figure Principle components for a value chain assessment (La Gra 1990) Analysis of each relevant component for a particular product/commodity will provide a good understanding of the process and value chain flows for the paddock to the plate (consumer) It will show how product production is undertaken, affects on quality, and costs associated with each systems can be quantified Therefore, planning and designing project to ensure vital and relevant information is collected and documented, will significantly improve the understanding of the processes involved in developing new and improved supply/value chains 21 We will this simple, interactive (step by step), logical, systematic approach to achieve project outcomes Report on Cross-Cutting Issues 6.1 Environment Pollution is a problem, particularly in the Mekong Delta The culture and attitudes of the farming population and villages, especially the poor need to be changed To reduce environmental degradation, villages need to be educated in the following areas: • over use of resources (over fishing and use of fish-raking boats) • discharge of human wastes • garbage disposal • in correct use of agricultural pesticides • land clearing • salinity problems due to shrimp farming of good agricultural land to diversify and improve income A substantial amount of specialised training is needed to change the culture from “thinking of environment as a resource to be used”, to “managing and protecting the environment by keeping the environment clean.” IMP strategies to reduce of agricultural pesticide use and maximise the use of biological and cultural controls, rather than a strict chemical control method is needed Chemicals must play a supportive rather than dominant role Pesticides should be used strictly when needed, as determined by pest monitoring systems and natural enemies encouraged providing a means of control The use of selective, nondisruptive chemicals must be preferred over broad-spectrum chemicals that can create an in-balance in orchards Broad-spectrum chemicals can lead to high use chemical programs thus trapping the farmer in to an ever increasing chemical spray program Other factors need attention is the application methods and rates of chemicals, their safe handling and disposal as well as their containers have to be included in training workshops 6.2 Gender and Social Issues The introduction in 1986 of the structural reform processes under doi moi, the Vietnamese economic renovation, has had a huge impact on agriculture, forestry and fisheries in Vietnam; virtually every aspect of the rural economy has been affected (Tran Thi Thu Trang, 2003) Doi moi has produced impressive results in Vietnamese agriculture; in particular, four aspects of agriculture have been affected by the introduction of free-market mechanisms: • land tenure • rice production • diversification of agricultural production 22 • and domestic and international trade of agricultural products The Land Law of 1993 radically altered land tenure practices in Vietnam While prior to doi moi land was largely farmed on a collective basis, this law gives farmers the right to inherit, mortgage, transfer, exchange and lease land By 1999 about 10 million households, the bulk of which are in low-lying areas, had been issued Land Use Certificates These new property rights have created an increased commitment on the part of the farming families to improve productivity; to wit, recent studies indicate that as much as one third of recent economic growth in Vietnam is attributable to the farmers’ new land rights In Vietnam now, the household is considered to be self-help-economic unit; the Vietnamese Government has issued many policies to encourage households contributing to national economic development Household-based development and organization of production will have many advantages, as the households can make decisions and implement their own production plans With the ethnic minority people, the local hamlet is their traditional social centre, with the life of each individual is closely linked with the community Many traditional customs still remain now with actual strength and not only in the people’s spirit and mental life Although household is a self-relying economic unit but production activities (land use, production seasons, crop harvesting) still strongly depend on the hamlet community The market opportunities created by doi moi have stimulated the diversification of agricultural production and the development of Vietnam’s agro-industries Agricultural diversification has resulted both in a reduction of poverty among agricultural households, and an increase in foreign exchange earnings due to the export of high value agricultural products Vietnam Living Standards Surveys reveal that from 1993 to 1998 the share of agricultural revenue provided by rice fell from 50.9 percent to 43.6 percent, while this period witnessed an increase in the share of agricultural revenue provided by industrial crops (i.e., soybeans, peanuts, sugar and tobacco), perennial crops (i.e., coffee, tea, rubber, coconut, cashew and mulberry), other food crops (i.e., maize, root crops, legumes and vegetables), and fruit trees In agricultural, forestry and fishery production, women participate in farming with production based on village/family units with all family members contributing to preharvest management Women are involved in field operations such as harvesting operations In Vietnam, women account for the majority in rural population (about 52%) and rural workforce (52-54%) Thus women make great contribution to rural economic growth Being aware of women's role, rural socio-economic policies formulated by the government have significantly increased women's role in response to their real abilities and potentials Nowadays, women are considered as a significant factor contributing to rural economic development through increasing jobs, facilitating their access to credit, education and science and technology advances in production In addition, salaries for women have increased to the same level as men's salaries There are more and more women taking important positions in political parties and government 23 Vietnam is a poor country in which 80 percent of the population lives in the rural areas In socioeconomic terms, the upland areas of Lao PDR and of Vietnam are where the poorest and most marginal people live (Douangsavanh, 2002) Marginalized by their remoteness and inaccessibility, and made vulnerable by the vagaries of nature and by their differences from the lowland population, the people of the uplands have the highest poverty and lowest quality of life indicators in the country Compared to the people of the lowlands, the upland people of Vietnam and Lao PDR have: • Higher birth rates • Lower life expectancy • Higher rates of infant and mother mortality • Lower per capita income • Lower access to credit • Lower road-density Livelihood of the majority of farmers has improved in recent years In Vietnam, farmers' household income has increased by over 10% since 1995, specifically from 7.7 million VND in 1993 to 9.8 million VND in 1998 (Figure 1) National food security has basically been maintained The number of poor and hungry people has been reduced from 30% in 1992 to 13% in 1999, equivalent to the average level of 2% a year 6.2.1 Figure GDP per capita in Vietnam 24 Implementation & Sustainability Issues 7.1 Issues and Constraints Delayed Start of Project Due to Signing of Contract Our CARD project started several months late (June 2005) due to protracted contract negotiations The project team tried to develop and speed up the processes to keep the project on track, but the short time periods made it impracticable for information gathering and development of workshops and training manuals Therefore it was proposed that the project milestones be delayed to synchronise with this late start A request for an extension via and email was sent from the then DPI&F Project Coordinator (Mr Paul Hickey) to Hassall Associates International coordinator in Australia (Ms Nguyen Anh Thu) to adjust the project milestones and project start date These changes were accepted Please find enclosed in Section 7.2 Options the new adjusted milestone dates We respectfully request that approval be given by the CARD Project Management Committee for agreement with these new dates Milestones for Pre- and Post-harvest and Quality Assurance Manuals The pre-and post-harvest training manuals and quality assurance manuals listed in the original Annex of Schedule Table of Milestones deliverables, were proposed to be completed by April 06 These are out of sink with the proposed activities as detailed in the original approved log frame for this CARD Project These were planned to be completed in Activity 8, half way through the CARD project To undertake development of theses manuals without having our collaborators fully understand their production and supply/value chain systems for mango and pomelo, how varieties, orchard management systems, external, internal and hidden fruit characteristics and how the fruits are affected as it progresses along the supply/value chain will lead to misinformation being documented and presented in a manual Developing these manuals within a month period will place enormous strain on the resources of the Vietnamese collaborators Time allocations submitted in the original project will need significant adjustment This may cause project outcomes to be effected and may also affect the long term sustainability of the project without obtaining full commitment from collaborators By developing reliable best practice manuals that determine good agricultural practices (GAP), having quality standards that are up to date with market requirements as well as agreements and adherence by all project supply/value chain participants to information documented in these manuals, will significantly enhance the sustainability of this project By allowing the movement of these three milestones to July 2007, as proposed in the new Adjusted Table of Milestones, these adjustments will align with originally Approved CARD Project Document Therefore, input requirements and time allocation will not have to be adjusted Please find enclosed in Section 7.2 Options the new Adjusted Milestone Descriptions These descriptions have not been change only the date of completion changed We respectfully request that approval be given by the CARD Project Management Committee for agreement with these adjusted times for project milestone deliverables Milestone Payments 25 Reviewing the Table of Milestone schedule (Annex of Schedule 2) in the contract, it was noted that the amounts to be paid to DPI&F and for allocation to the Vietnamese collaborators for each year not equate to the budgeted expenditure payments as per the original approved CARD Budget Project Document In the original approved CARD Budget Project Document, for year one (2005) total payment of $139,403 was budgeted for As per the Table of Milestone schedule (Annex of Schedule 2) in the contract for the first year payment of $162,135 In the original approved CARD Budget Project Document, for year two (2006) total payment of $146,985 was budgeted for As per the Table of Milestone schedule (Annex of Schedule 2) in the contract for the second year payment of $106,374 In the original approved CARD Budget Project Document, for year three (2007) total payment of $147,490 As per the Table of Milestone schedule (Annex of Schedule 2) in the contract for the third year and project completion payment of $165,368 Total Approved CARD Project Budget is $433,878 To keep inline with the original approved CARD Project Budget and to facilitate ease of management and activates we respectful request that the milestone payments be changed to reflect project activities undertaken as pre the original log frame and yearly payments are synchronised to reflect original approved CARD Project Budget Please find enclosed in Section 7.2 Options the new adjusted milestone payments Please note:- Monetary amounts have not changed as per the signed contract or original approved CARD Project Budget in the new Annex of Schedule Adjusted Table of Milestones Travel Travel costs have increased due to: • airlines fees increases to cover increase in fuel costs • and change in fight schedules have increased The change in flight schedules from Brisbane now require an eight hour stop over in either Singapore or Bangkok, as there are now no direct flights by any airline To ensure the safety of project personnel (reduce effects of jet lag, stress or possible illness due to extended travel times) an extra two days are required to be added to each project trip If personnel are required to flight eight or nine hours to Singapore or Bangkok then wait at the airport for further eight hours to catch a connecting flight, then flight two hours to Ho Chi Min City will significantly affect the operation ability of project personnel Therefore it is advisable and for personnel safety a stop over rest be taken in either Singapore or Bangkok For ease of project management and to remain within budget the increased costs of overseas travel will be re-allocated from the Equipment and Other Services Section of 26 the approved project budget This will keep the project on track and deliver milestones on time and keep with in budget We respectfully request that approval be given by the CARD Project Management Committee for agreement with these adjustments to travel times and re-allocation of a small quality of money from the Equipment and Other Services 7.2 Options New Table of Milestones to be replaced Table of Milestone if approval is give by CARD Project Management Committee 7.3 Sustainability Inception of this CARD project revealed no sustainability issues arising from the project aims, objectives or activities The only project sustainability issues affecting the project are time line issues These need adjustment due to the CARD projects delayed start Participatory Action Learning (PAL) and Train the Trainer (TTT) will improve the projects effectiveness and sustainability This will be achieved by creating a creditable knowledge and information based within each of the Vietnamese Collaborating Institutes (SIAEP and SOFRI) and key project participants (stakeholders) This will provide the Vietnamese mango and pomelo industries (farmers) and supply/value chain stakeholders (beneficiaries) with a recourse they can utilise, significantly adding to the sustainability of this project Next Critical Steps Obtain agreement and permission from CARD Project Management Committee for adjustments to milestones and payments to reflect the original approved project outputs and activates Conclusion The inception of this project has started on a very positive footing with all collaborators (Australian and Vietnamese) highly committed to achieving the aims and objectives as set down in the project document Excellent progress has been made to date, with many stakeholders and beneficiaries wishing to participate in this project For example approximately 45 stakeholders attended a workshop held in Ho Chi Minh City at SIAEP New concepts were introduced on supply/value chain management Each member participated in this 27 workshop by providing information and views about the Vietnamese mango and pomelo industries opportunities and problems they are facing With the project starting late a slight adjustment has to be made to the projects milestones time lines to ensure the project will deliver outcomes that are sustainable 28 ... Institute Information Project Name Improvement of export and domestic markets for Vietnamese fruit through improved post-harvest and supply chain management Vietnamese Institution Southern Sub-Institute... Systems for ASEAN Fruit and Vegetables ADB Project VIE-1781 Development project of tea and fruits, MARD, Asian Development Bank Ministry of Science and Technology NA Collaboration of post-harvest handling... CARD Project Management Committee for agreement with these new dates Milestones for Pre- and Post-harvest and Quality Assurance Manuals The pre -and post-harvest training manuals and quality assurance