Can Tho promotes tech supply-demand connectivity for OCOP products

As the "core" urban center of the Mekong Delta region, Can Tho City has consistently prioritized promoting and applying scientific and technological advances in high-tech agriculture, agro-fishery product processing, and the development of OCOP and key products.

Among these efforts, the city has identified technology supply-demand connectivity activities associated with traceability as a key solution for effectively implementing the Politburo’s Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in the development of science and technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, as well as Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development.

On May 28, at the 2026 technology supply-demand connectivity event for OCOP and key products associated with traceability, organized by the Can Tho City People’s Committee, Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Diep, Vice Chairwoman of the City People’s Committee, emphasized that traceability for OCOP and key products has gradually been standardized in recent years through the application of codes, barcodes, electronic labels, and digital platforms.

However, technology supply-demand connectivity activities remain limited. Collaboration among scientists, research institutes, universities, businesses, and production entities has yet to become sufficiently close. Therefore, the transition toward smart agriculture based on data and technology is no longer an option but an urgent requirement.

Ms. Diep requested that departments, agencies, and People’s Committees of communes and wards accelerate the development and operation of product traceability systems. At the same time, the business community, cooperatives, household businesses, and OCOP stakeholders were urged to proactively renew their mindset, boldly invest in technology, and apply traceability, e-commerce, livestream sales, and modern logistics to enhance product value.

Currently, the Can Tho Science and Technology Application Center has put into operation the Technology Exchange, a hub for advanced solutions, equipment, and technologies that provides a space for technology demonstration and supply-demand connectivity for businesses and localities. City leaders called on relevant units to strengthen the effective utilization and connectivity.

Can Tho City currently has 903 OCOP products from 454 entities rated three stars or higher. Under the 2026 OCOP Program implementation plan, the city aims to newly recognize at least 103 OCOP products rated three stars or above, with priority given to cooperatives and women-led enterprises. At the same time, the city strives to add three more 5-star OCOP products and upgrade at least 20% of existing 3-star products to 4-star status.

Notably, in 2026, Can Tho will focus on developing green OCOP products that preserve cultural values and protect the rural environment. The city will accelerate digital transformation, digitize the scoring and classification process, and support OCOP entities in livestream sales. In parallel, resources from both the state budget and social mobilization will be leveraged to support entities in packaging innovation, intellectual property registration, and the application of traceability systems.

Mr. Nguyen Phuong Tuan, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly’s Committee for Science, Technology and Environment, said that Can Tho City needs to accelerate technology transfer to serve as a support for key and OCOP products.

According to Mr. Tuan, supply-demand connectivity activities should aim to bring technologies from laboratories, research institutes, and universities to cooperatives and businesses, based on actual market demand.

Businesses and OCOP entities also need to boldly apply post-harvest technologies, deep processing techniques, and advanced packaging solutions to enhance added value and move toward conquering international markets, rather than relying solely on raw exports or informal trade.

He also emphasized that traceability must be regarded as a critical link in the modern supply chain, rather than merely the application of electronic labels. The adoption of digital technologies and the development of integrated data systems from farm to tables would help enhance transparency and standardize sector governance.

At the same time, the technology exchange should evolve into a genuine innovation ecosystem, serving not only as a venue for showcasing machinery and equipment but also as a focal point that connects businesses with experts, digital transformation solutions, and automation technologies suited to their financial capacities.

In addition, OCOP products should prioritize registering trademarks, trade names, and geographical indications, and link products to intellectual property assets to enhance the value and competitiveness of key local products.