Proactively adopting technological innovation
After many years of development, Vân Sơn Rattan and Bamboo Craft Cooperative has gradually strengthened its position in the market by renewing its production mindset and applying science and technology to improve product value. According to Mr. Lê Viết Sơn, Director of the Cooperative, the unit has designed and produced nearly 500 rattan and bamboo craft designs to serve the domestic market and move toward export. At the same time, the cooperative has expanded the procurement and processing of rattan materials locally, contributing to stable livelihoods for many households in mountainous areas.
In recent years, the cooperative has invested in equipment to improve processing capacity, including a boiling system with a capacity of 1.5 tons per batch and a drying system capable of processing 4.5 tons of raw materials per batch within 48 hours. However, the material treatment stage still relied heavily on traditional methods such as natural air drying or fuel-based drying. These methods have revealed limitations in productivity, cost efficiency, and quality stability, especially during periods of frequent rainfall and unpredictable weather.
The application of solar-powered drying technology helps shorten drying time.
In response to the need for technological innovation and climate change adaptation, the cooperative boldly applied a solar-powered drying system for rattan materials in 2025. This model is part of the project “Application of Solar Drying Technology for Rattan Materials” implemented by the Forest Industry Research Institute in collaboration with the Provincial Agricultural Extension Center. The project aims to support cooperatives and mountainous producers in accessing scientific and technological advances, reducing production costs, and increasing the value of raw materials in line with the orientation toward green development and a circular economy.
Initial results indicate clear effectiveness. The model helps eliminate fuel costs for drying, saves about 20 percent of drying expenses compared with traditional methods, reduces defective material rates by 5 to 10 percent, and increases economic efficiency by at least 15 percent compared with natural drying.
Ensuring a stable supply of raw materials and enhancing processing capacity.
The introduction of the solar-powered drying facility has enabled Vân Sơn Cooperative to maintain a stable supply of raw materials throughout the year while creating employment opportunities for local workers. According to Dr. Hà Đình Mạnh, the project leader, the major advantage of solar drying technology is its stable and continuous operation. The system maintains a temperature of around 60°C using solar energy and automatically switches to grid electricity when sunlight is insufficient, ensuring consistent drying quality.
According to Mr. Lê Viết Sơn, Director of the cooperative, the system has created an important shift in the organization of production. The improved material quality has been well received by customers, resulting in more stable orders and providing a foundation for the cooperative to expand linkages and develop a sustainable rattan production chain.
IPA
