Hanoi (VNA) –꧃ The enhancement of trade promotion activities combined with e-commerce is emerging as an optimal solution for businesses and cooperatives from mountainous areas. This allows remote companies to deliver products to consumers nationwide quickly and conveniently.

Combining online and traditional sales channels

In addition to the traditional sales model, the 3T Cao Phong Agricultural Cooperative in Cao Phong district in the northern mountainous province of Hoa Binh is expanding into e-commerce to increase sales. According to Vu Thi Le Thuy, head of the cooperative, they have at times sold 3 tonnes of oranges per day through live streaming. Additionally, their Facebook page with over 1,000 followers helps them reach a broad contingent of consumers. The cooperative also focuses on building strong and sustainable connections with consumers through educational programmes and communications sessions that offer real-life experiences on the benefits of sustainable agriculture. It is also developing innovative business models, such as the operation of clean produce stores and educational farms, to raise community awareness and promote green consumption. Many cooperatives said while producing clean and sustainable agricultural products is no problem for them in general, entering large retail chains requires additional support from public agencies to establish a strong and sustainable foothold. Nguyen Thi Nhu Trang, director of the Son Dung Tea Cooperative, noted that their products are mostly premium goods. However, the long shelf life required for supermarket distribution is challenging for tea products whose quality might be affected. Therefore, the cooperative is focusing on strengthening its online sales channels.

Maximising trade promotion advantages

Promoting trade and strengthening connections between producers and distribution channels have proven to be effective. Not only does this ensure stable product consumption, but also increase the value of local specialties through well-organised efforts and support from professional organisations. Nguyen Minh Tien, Director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Centre for Agriculture (Agritrade), said that the centre has organised numerous trade fairs and regional specialty markets to connect local producers and cooperatives with supermarkets and modern retail systems in major cities across the country. These activities follow a comprehensive and transparent agricultural value chain ecosystem, from production, processing, and storage to distribution to consumers. The centre has also supported cooperatives in focusing on the domestic market, promoting the motto “Vietnamese people prioritise Vietnamese goods”. It also encourages the consumption of high-quality agricultural products, including those produced according to organic and circular farming standards. This approach is expected to positively impact the production, processing, and consumption of agricultural, forestry, and fisheries goods toward sustainability and the use of advanced technology.

According to Tien, consumers today are increasing their purchases through e-commerce platforms and social media in addition to traditional channels. To expand trade promotion, open new markets, offer greater access to customers, and bring significant economic benefits, IT solutions and origin certificates are being implemented to step up commercial promotion efforts. Nguyen The Hiep, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade, noted that the department has been strengthening the application of information technology in the sale of products made under the One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme via the implementation of traceability systems and the display of goods on e-commerce platforms. The active promotion of trade and consumption of Vietnamese products is expected to create a significant shift in consumers’ awareness, encouraging them to prioritise domestically produced goods./.