In the central province of Quảng Nam, Vietnam, the Cơ Tu ethnic group has leveraged the A Riêu chilli, a rare and potent variety, to enhance their economic standing. Originating from Đông Giang, this chilli, named after a local bird known for spreading its seeds, plays a pivotal role in the community's income through both direct sales and tourism initiatives.
Thriving in Đông Giang's mountainous terrain, the A Riêu chilli is celebrated for its intense heat and aroma, making it a staple in regional and national cuisines. The cultivation of this chilli has transitioned from wild growth to a structured agricultural endeavor, significantly impacting the local economy.
With nearly 40% of Mà Coi Commune's households engaged in its cultivation, the A Riêu chilli commands a premium price due to its organic nature and distinctive flavor. This crop has not only become a mainstay for farmers but has also achieved a four-star Vietnamese OCOP certification, highlighting its status as a top agricultural product in Đông Giang.
To ensure sustainable growth, Đông Giang District has embarked on a strategic crop restructuring over 12 hectares, involving a hundred households. This initiative aims at optimizing yields and promoting year-round production. Additionally, the local community has diversified its product range by processing the chilli into sauces and pickles, extending its shelf life and usage.
The inaugural A Riêu Chilli Fair/Festival in Đông Giang served as a platform to showcase the chilli, alongside traditional Cơ Tu cultural activities. This event not only highlighted the chilli's culinary significance but also fostered agricultural collaboration and eco-tourism development, underscoring the broader economic and cultural benefits of the A Riêu chilli to the region.
Authorities in Đông Giang and Quảng Nam are optimistic about the chilli's potential to bolster local livelihoods, organic farming practices, biodiversity conservation, and community-based eco-tourism, marking a significant step towards sustainable development.
Source: Viet Nam News