Vietnam's Mekong Delta eyes opportunities for self-sufficient wood raw material supply

The Mekong Delta region in Vietnam possesses a substantial, yet underestimated, potential for developing wood raw materials, particularly acacia, according to experts at a June 10 seminar.

Dr. Tran Lam Dong, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Forest Science Institute, highlighted that acacia productivity in the region can reach 40-50 m³/ha/year, significantly exceeding that of traditional growing areas in the north and central regions. Phung Quoc Man, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts and Wood Processing Association (HAWA), stated that member businesses are ready to purchase products if quality standards are met. He noted the primary challenge is optimizing costs and economic benefits for both farmers and businesses within the same area and resource base.

Despite the positive outlook on raw material potential, many wood processing companies report difficulties in securing stable supplies. A representative from MDF VRG Kien Giang Joint Stock Company mentioned a shortage of eucalyptus, a key material, which increases costs and affects the production of high-surface-quality products. The company currently blends various wood types like hybrid acacia, Melaleuca, and eucalyptus based on client needs.

Nguyen Van Chinh, Director of The Trees Co., Ltd., pointed to the "brain drain" of raw materials, with large volumes being exported to China. This export trend reduces domestic supply and drives up local prices.

Luong Chi Hung, representing a forestry consulting firm, proposed comprehensive support programs covering seed selection, silvicultural techniques, and pest control. He also suggested HAWA establish mechanisms to aid research institutes in breeding and disease prevention, and to help businesses and individuals access sustainable forest certifications such as VFCS and FSC.

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The biggest problem right now is, for the same area, the same raw material region, how to optimize costs and economic benefits, to be profitable for farmers and easy for businesses.