Bayer clinches win at GovMedia Conference & Awards 2024
Its Bayer ForwardFarming initiative is its approach to empower decarbonisation and production of sustainable rice towards regenerative agriculture.
Multinational life science company Bayer took home the Vietnam Public-Private Partnership of the Year - Agriculture in the coveted GovMedia Conference & Awards 2024 for its Bayer ForwardFarming Vietnam initiative that seeks to address the challenges faced by rice farmers in improving the output and quality of Vietnamese rice for exports and to support farmers in building resilient farms.
This initiative, launched in September 2023, is a product of the 3-year partnership between Bayer and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), which emphasises the importance of sustainable rice production, utilising innovation in crop protection and seed treatment, and sharing technical knowledge with farmers to achieve long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Through this collaboration, Bayer Vietnam has taken on the role of co-chair on the Vietnam Task Force on Rice. This new responsibility further reinforces MARD and Bayer’s commitment to Vietnam’s rice production and the marketability of low-carbon sustainable rice.
Since the launch of the Bayer ForwardFarming initiative, the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices has led to a 30% reduction in seed rates and the use of herbicides, fertilisers, and workload for farmers. Farm yields in the first season have also reportedly increased by 13%, resulting in a more profitable farming system with a 46% higher profit-to-income ratio compared to conventional practices. The following seasons consistently showcase positive outcomes
To date, the project has trained 4,500 farmers on smart farming techniques, promoting responsible and safe use of crop protection products and reducing emissions.
Considering the current weather pattern which poses a significant threat to rice production in ASEAN, this collaborative approach ensures the scalability, rice supplies, and long-term impact of sustainable practices, paving the way for a more prosperous future for Vietnamese agriculture.
“The Bayer ForwardFarming initiative stands as a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development and bringing about positive change in the agricultural community in Vietnam,“ the company said.
The GovMedia Conference & Awards is a prestigious event that spotlights outstanding government projects and initiatives in Asia that contribute to the well-being of the people in the region.
The Gov Media Awards is presented by Gov Media Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2024 awards programme and be recognised for your organisation's government projects and initiatives, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].
