HCMC building the Phu Giao melon brand

The People's Committee of Phu Giao Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, held a conference bringing together farmers, cooperatives, and melon-buying enterprises under the theme "Building and Developing the Phu Giao Melon Brand."

The conference aimed to assess the current status of melon production and marketing while identifying solutions to develop the commune's signature agricultural brand. It also provided a platform for local authorities, producers, and businesses to discuss challenges related to production linkages, market access, quality standards, and opportunities to expand into new markets.

According to the People's Committee of Phu Giao Commune, the commune currently has around 80 hectares of melon cultivation, concentrated in An Binh and Wards 4 and 6 of the former Phuoc Vinh Town. Most of the growing area is under greenhouse cultivation, using drip irrigation systems combined with automated fertigation. This production model enables farmers to better manage pests and diseases, reduce production costs, and improve fruit quality compared to traditional farming methods.

On average, each hectare produces about 100 tonnes of melons annually. Many growers have invested in high-quality seed varieties and adopted advanced cultivation practices, including integrated pest management and strict control of pesticide residues. These efforts provide a solid foundation for Phu Giao melons to meet increasingly stringent market requirements, particularly those of modern retail and distribution channels.

At the conference, participants emphasized that building a strong brand involves more than simply creating a product name. It requires consistent product quality, standardized production processes, and sustainable value chain linkages. Several delegates suggested that local authorities continue supporting farmers in standardizing production, promoting the application of science and technology, expanding trade promotion activities, and strengthening partnerships with enterprises through contract farming arrangements.

Despite the advantages of an established production area and experienced growers, melon consumption remains highly dependent on market fluctuations. Participants agreed that developing production area codes, strengthening traceability systems, ensuring food safety, and building stable distribution channels should be key priorities in the coming period.

Phu Giao District - known as the "cradle of Binh Duong melons" has witnessed the success story of Kim Long High-Tech Agricultural Cooperative (Kim Long Cooperative). 

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Huynh Huy Long, Member of the Party Committee Standing Board and Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Giao Commune, emphasized that building the "Phu Giao Melon" brand is a necessary step to increase the value of local agricultural products, improve farmers' incomes, and promote modern and sustainable agricultural development. With approximately 80 hectares of melon cultivation, Phu Giao is seeking to standardize production and strengthen linkages with businesses to enhance the market value of its locally grown melons.

He called on relevant sectors to continue supporting farmers, cooperatives, and businesses in addressing challenges, strengthening production and consumption linkages, and gradually enhancing the market position of Phu Giao melons. This, he said, would contribute to improving local people's incomes and promoting socio-economic development in the area.

In the early days of summer, greenhouses growing cantaloupe in the province enter the harvest season. Amidst the lush green rows of melons, each plump fruit, emitting a delicate aroma, is the result of applying scientific and technical methods to agricultural production. Not only does it bring high economic value, but cantaloupe is gradually establishing its position in the market thanks to its delicious quality and distinctive sweet taste.

Along with the trend of choosing clean food with clear origins, cantaloupe has been increasingly accepted by consumers both within and outside the province. The product is sold through clean agricultural product stores, supermarkets, social media, and direct orders from the farms. Many harvests are pre-ordered by customers even before the harvest date, helping producers proactively secure sales and stabilize their income.

At the conference, delegates also discussed various solutions to improve the efficiency of using capital to support farmers, develop supply chain linkages, collective economic activities, and apply digital technology in agricultural production.