Strengthening Vietnam’s Fairtrade Network: Advancing Sustainability, Equity, and Compliance

In Vietnam’s agricultural heartlands, a transformative step was taken toward sustainable farming and equitable practices through the Capacity Building Workshop on Fairtrade Standards, Bio-Fertilizer Production, and the Producer Network Meeting. Organized by Fairtrade NAPP and supported by key donors committed to global sustainability, this three-day event united cooperative leaders, fostering knowledge sharing and preparing them to meet evolving international standards.

The workshop’s success was made possible through the vital contributions of its donors, whose funding and guidance underscore a shared commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices. The donors’ logos were prominently featured throughout the sessions, ensuring their contributions were recognized at every level. Social media updates further highlighted the collaboration, tagging donors and promoting their efforts to achieve a transparent, deforestation-free, and equitable supply chain.

The workshop’s agenda was firmly rooted in Fairtrade’s vision of aligning local initiatives with global standards. Key sessions addressed pressing topics like understanding and implementing Fairtrade Standards, equipping cooperatives to meet the rigorous requirements of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and integrating gender strategies into cooperative development.

The program’s broader objective was to create a sustainable Fairtrade system in Vietnam, enabling producers to maintain compliance while gaining access to premium EU markets. With donor-backed funding, these initiatives emphasize Fairtrade’s commitment to empowering communities through education and resources.

Fairtrade NAPP facilitators, led by Tran Ban Hung, emphasized the importance of Fairtrade standards in tackling non-compliance issues during audits. Practical solutions for audit preparation, effective communication, and post-audit follow-ups were provided, equipping cooperatives with the tools to meet compliance requirements confidently.

The EUDR session offered critical insights for Vietnamese producers aiming to maintain EU market access for key exports like coffee and timber. Steps such as conducting due diligence, utilizing satellite and GIS mapping for deforestation monitoring, and implementing blockchain technology for supply chain transparency were outlined. These measures, though challenging, were presented as gateways to premium markets that demand sustainability.

Promoting gender equity was central to the workshop, with sessions dedicated to creating actionable gender strategies at the cooperative level. Supported by donor initiatives, these discussions focused on fostering inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated agricultural spaces. By empowering women in leadership roles and addressing cultural barriers, cooperatives can strengthen community resilience and cohesion.

Participants visited True COOP in Binh Thuan, a shining example of sustainable agricultural practices. The visit, supported by donor collaborations, showcased bio-fertilizer production and the benefits of intercropping hibiscus under cashew trees. This approach highlighted the tangible benefits of diversified income streams and improved land quality, reaffirming the impact of sustainability-focused initiatives.

The workshop concluded with strategic planning for the Vietnam Producer Network’s 2025–2027 agenda, supported by establishing a technical board. This board, composed of young cooperative staff, will provide ongoing support for audits, compliance, and Fairtrade-related challenges.Fairtrade’s donors remain critical partners in ensuring these plans translate into measurable impacts. Upcoming activities, including GIS mapping training and gender strategy workshops, will be rolled out with donor backing, ensuring Vietnamese cooperatives are well-equipped to meet global demands.

While the workshop addressed significant challenges—such as limited access to deforestation-monitoring technologies and the integration of gender strategies—it also highlighted immense opportunities. With donor support, Vietnamese cooperatives are better positioned to achieve EUDR compliance, access premium EU markets, and lead sustainable agricultural practices. These advancements lay the foundation for increased revenue, community cohesion, and international recognition.

The three-day workshop was more than a learning experience—it was a testament to the power of collaboration between Fairtrade, its donors, and local producers. By bridging local efforts with global sustainability standards, Fairtrade NAPP is ensuring Vietnam’s agricultural sector is sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive.

With the continued support of donors, Vietnamese cooperatives are poised to set a benchmark in ethical trade and sustainability, creating lasting change for communities and the planet.