HÀ NỘI — FLC Group plans to invest US$1.5 billion in hi-tech agriculture in Việt Nam in the 2018-20 period.

According to a co-operation agreement signed between FLC and Japan’s Farmdo Company in central Thanh Hóa Province on December 21, the two sides will co-operate to develop a 4,000ha hi-tech agricultural farm combining solar energy – one of the world’s most advanced models in the sector.

This model uses double-sided solar panels to cover agricultural land, allowing for renewable energy, even as crops continue to receive most of the sunshine and agricultural machinery remains stable.

Studies showed that the system can increase productivity and reduce CO2 emissions, while taking advantage of the cheap electricity resource for agricultural production.

In addition, Farmdo will also transfer advanced farming technologies used in Japan to FLC.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Farmdo chairman Masayuki Iwai said the hi-tech agriculture model combining solar energy has received support from the Japanese government. Farmdo has been active in expanding the model both inside and outside Japan, he added.

“This model is suitable with FLC’s green and sustainable development orientation. With many similar characteristics between the two countries, we believe the model can be quickly applied at all FLC’s projects,” Masayuki said.

He proposed FLC sends its employees to Japan to learn about the technology at the earliest.

FLC chairman Trịnh Văn Quyết said the signing with a reputable Japanese hi-tech firm such as Farmdo is a necessary step to improve productivity in comparison with traditional production. It would also offer hi-quality products to the market, contributing to building green, clean and sustainable agriculture.

Quyết added that following the signing, the investment promotion between FLC and its Japanese partners would be enhanced with the support of Norio Hattori, former Japanese ambassador to Việt Nam and currently head of the FLC representative office in Japan.

Farmdo is one of the leading firms in the agriculture sector in Japan. It plans to expand investment and its model in many Asian countries. — VNS