Digital Transformation: A Driving Force Helping Gia Lai Agricultural Products Reach New Markets & Achieve Sustainable Poverty Reduction

Did you know that on the Gia Lai plateau — the famous red basalt highlands — many farmers are transforming in ways few could imagine, thanks to digital technology? It’s no longer just about “planting and harvesting,” but a journey of innovation and building sustainable value for Gia Lai’s agricultural products.

1. From Small Farms to Digital Channels – A New Path for Gia Lai’s Agricultural Products

Previously, many households growing coffee, pepper, macadamia, or fruit trees in Gia Lai mainly sold their products through traditional middlemen. Today, with digital platforms, they have stepped into a completely new world: listing products on Shopee and TikTok Shop, enhancing images, and telling the story of their products — from the farm to the coffee cup.

With just a smartphone, they livestream, take photos, and interact with customers faster — making Gia Lai’s agricultural products not only reach local markets but also spread across the province and even beyond.

2. Farmers Shift Mindset – Quality Takes Center Stage

Not only are farmers in Gia Lai selling more, but they are also paying greater attention to quality. Many coffee producers follow VietGAP and GlobalGAP standards, and some even attach QR codes for traceability.

When customers scan the QR code, they can see the exact growing region, roasting process, and certifications. This transparency builds strong trust. Buyers aren’t just purchasing a bag of coffee — they are buying the story of Gia Lai and the pride of the highlands.

3. Cooperatives Go Digital: A Strong Boost for Agriculture

Digital transformation isn’t just for individual households. Many cooperatives in Gia Lai have set up online stores, used livestreaming to promote agricultural products, and implemented QR codes for traceability.

For example, Nam Yang Cooperative sells honey, nuts, and coffee through TikTok Shop and Shopee. Thanks to this approach, sales volumes have increased steadily, and the income of cooperative members has strengthened — providing not only short-term economic benefits but also a foundation for the sustainable value of Gia Lai’s agricultural products.

4. Improved Digital Infrastructure – The Trump Card for Highland Agricultural Products

Gia Lai hasn’t missed the digitalization trend: the province has heavily invested in digital infrastructure, mobile communication, and internet connectivity covering villages across the region. At the same time, “community tech teams” guide farmers on using social media, livestreaming, and creating online stores. This “digital bridge” has enabled Gia Lai’s farmers to reach consumers far and wide.

5. Rural Economy Innovation – A Path to Sustainable Poverty Reduction

The application of digitalization is not just a technical matter — it is a real pathway to poverty reduction. When farmers in Gia Lai get better prices, actively build their brands, and earn consumers’ trust through clear traceability, their incomes rise and their living standards improve.

Models such as fruit orchards oriented toward commercial production, clean agriculture, or combined with community-based tourism are also spreading, creating new livelihoods — simultaneously developing Gia Lai’s agricultural products and tapping into the region’s potential.

6. Challenges Ahead – Yet Great Opportunities Remain

Of course, digitalization is not a “magic bullet”: Gia Lai still has areas with weak logistics infrastructure, high transportation costs, and building packaging and branding remains a significant challenge. However, the momentum is strong: farmers, cooperatives, and local authorities all recognize that if Gia Lai’s agricultural products are done right and their stories are told well, they can become more than just local goods — they could become a national brand, and even beyond.

Source: Compiled