Traditional basket-making techniques in Tien Phuoc District.

In Quang Nam province, economic development in western mountainous areas is left behind compared to its costal lowlands where continuing economic growth centered on the service industry has been seen. Nineteen ethnic minorities inhabit in the western areas, and most of them sustain their living from small farming. Since FIDR has shown great achievements in the Project for Rural Development by Local Initiative of the Ethnic Minority Communities in Nam Giang District, Quang Nam province has requested to implement a project to improve living standard of all ethnic minorities in nine mountainous districts struggling with a high poverty rate.

In response to the request from Quang Nam province, FIDR conducted a survey, which revealed that abundant nature and traditional culture of the ethnic minorities became a significant advantage for creating distinctive industries in the region. Based on the results of the survey, we identified potentials of local products development, strategies of value chain building, and measures of strengthening cooperation among areas. In collaboration with local stakeholders, FIDR developed a plan of the new project. In December, FIDR proposed this project and adopted for JICA Partnership Program. The project team is on the process of preparing for the implementation of the project activities which is scheduled to launch in this fiscal year.