In the northern regions of Viet Nam, forestry and agriculture provide livelihoods for nearly 80 percent of the population. However, nearly half of all households own less than one hectare of land, which often prevents farmers from earning the income they need. To help smallholder farmers find ways to raise their incomes – while sustainably using forest resources – the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) partnered with the Viet Nam National Farmers’ Union (VNFU) to support farming families in forming life-changing cooperatives.

Launched in 2012, the FFF is a partnership between FAO, the International Institute for Environment and Development, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and AgriCord. This collaboration with the VNFU aimed to strengthen farmer organizations, improve farmers’ incomes and protect natural resources. The FFF focused on seven value chains: tree nurseries, timber, cinnamon products, star anise oil, tea, pomelo and forest chickens.