ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the potential of Northwest Vietnam to diversify its land use through vegetable production systems. Temperate vegetables such as tomato and common cabbage have a high potential for Northwest Vietnam because of its relatively cool climate and these products offer the opportunity to reduce reliance on imported temperate vegetables. Constraints and opportunities for Northwest Vietnam to expand vegetable production were evaluated by focusing on the representative provinces of Son La and Dien Bien and their potential to supply fresh produce to the urban markets of Hanoi. Data from producers and consumers was analyzed for changing trends. In addition, on-farm trials were conducted to determine the suitability of introducing elite vegetable varieties and integrated pest management options into existing farming systems. The use of integrated pest management is particularly important because Hanoi consumers associate vegetables from the Northwest with low levels of pesticide use.
