Farming System in the Red River Delta with Special Emphasis on the Role of Dairy Production

Aithough potential exists, milk production in the Red River Delta (RRD) has met only less than 5 percent of the estimated demand for local comsumption. The study thus conducted to unravel the underlying constrains. The specific objectives are (1) to examine farming and dairy production systems in the study aeras and (2) to identify the factors affecting output of raw milk. These results were based on the data collected from 90 households in Hanoi and Hatay provinces. Descriptive statistics and production function analysis were used as the principal methods for data analysis. The findings show that although dairy farm was small in size, it was still a major component of the farming system. Feeding practice and raising conts were found to vary by breeds and households. Farmers could benefit from rising cows, but their net returns were only moderate. Lack of fodder, incidence of disease problem and low price of raw milk compared to input prices were main obstacles for extending the dairy farm size. The results of regression analysis indicate that farmers still can increase thir milk output by using results of regression (i.e. concentrated feed, fodder,labor). The findings suggest that credit institutes should consider providing low and long-term lans to dairy farmers. Local leaders ought to pay attention on zoning of grass production and processing waste of dairy farms. In addition, the improvement of vaterinary and milk collection networks at the raising zones is also very necessary. If the prices of milk and respective inputs are anchanged, the major productivity improvement must be rely heavily on raising high percentage HF blood cows (i.e. 3/4HF blood cows) and improving feed production