Farming Systems Research

The Doi Moi reforms have opened new possibilities in farming systems research in Veitnam. In accordance with the Doi Moi reforms, Vietnam has been working on plans that would create sustainable development projects in rural Vietnam. "More recently scientist and agricultural policy makers have been accepting the idea of agricultural diversification and are now paying attention to farming systems approaches for sustainable agriculture," (Duong and Cho 1994:2). According to Duong and Cho, introduction of appropriate farming practices to Vietnam farmers can help them achieve a higher output while sustaining the environment (1994:2) These attempts allowed for by Doi Moi are trying to improve current agricultural production and stimulate Vietnam's agricultural base (Duong and Cho 1994:6). However, the current state of funding and knowledge of farming systems in Vietnam is limited (Duong and Cho 1994:7). I must note here that no where in Duong and Cho's report plans was a social scientist even mentioned. An anthropologist in this situation could help mediate cultural differences and by doing so speed up progress. Yet, a start in farming systems research is a recognizable step for Vietnam farmers in considering sustainable development possibilities and improving their daily lives.