The northern area of Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam, formerly part of Bac Kan, will begin harvesting seedless persimmons in late October. The fruit has become a key income source for local farmers, contributing to rural development and improved livelihoods.
Seedless persimmons are valued for their smooth skin, crisp texture, aroma, and sweetness. In northern communes of Thai Nguyen, these trees have been cultivated for generations, with some nearly a century old. The main production areas include Quang Bach, Nam Cuong, Dong Phuc, Na Phac, Ba Be, and Na Ri. Last year, 830 hectares of seedless persimmons produced 2,000 tons of fruit.
Grower Vu Thi Hue of Ba Be commune said, "This persimmon is very sweet. Every year, I sell a large quantity to the market, and buyers love the taste. With better roads now, shipping is much easier."
Farmer Nong Sy Lap of Nam Cuong commune added, "My family has 6,000 square meters of seedless persimmons. This year's crop is excellent, with yields much higher than last year. The fruit sells readily, bringing a good income. Traders and retailers come to the orchards to buy in person."
In Na Chom hamlet, Dong Phuc commune, farmers established the Dong Loi Cooperative in 2018 to focus on seedless persimmon cultivation and marketing. The cooperative manages 43 hectares, with 20 hectares currently in harvest. "In a good year, we harvest around 150 tons. For 2025, the expected output is between 60 and 70 tons. Locals hope to further expand the growing area," said Luc Van Thiep, Deputy Director of the cooperative.
Thai Nguyen's seedless persimmons received Geographical Indication status in 2010 and were listed among Vietnam's Top 100 Famous Brands in 2013. This year, farmers are selling the fruit for US$0.76–0.95 per kilogram. Improved road infrastructure has reduced transport costs and facilitated sales across northern provinces such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Bac Ninh.
Tourism has also developed around the harvest season, with visitors picking fruit, taking photos, and purchasing persimmons as gifts.
Dong Loi Cooperative has invested in solar-powered drying technology to process soft-dried persimmons, which sell at higher prices. Director Dong Van Loi said, "We're focusing on producing soft-dried persimmons to diversify our products and increase our profits. The market response to our seedless dried persimmons has been very positive." The cooperative plans to process 5–6 tons this year, with one kilogram of fresh fruit producing about half a kilogram of dried product.
Recognized under Vietnam's OCOP (One Commune, One Product) program, Thai Nguyen's seedless persimmons are now promoted through trade fairs, e-commerce platforms, and social media. Local authorities aim to expand cultivation and link it with tourism to strengthen market presence and maintain competitiveness in the coming seasons.
Source: Voice of Vietnam
