Foreign visitors explore an OCOP product display booth at a tourist site in Mỹ Tho Ward, Đồng Tháp Province. — VNA/VNS Photo

ĐỒNG THÁP — The One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme in Đồng Tháp Province is expanding beyond agricultural specialties, gradually emerging as a bridge linking farming, local culture and community-based tourism into a unified value chain.

Once characterised by purely agricultural landscapes, many rural areas in the province have developed experiential tourism models, creating additional livelihoods for residents while opening new pathways for rural economic growth.

The province currently has 1,061 OCOP products, including 820 rated three stars and 233 rated four stars. It also boasts four five-star products and four others with potential to reach the highest rating.

This foundation is seen as key to strengthening connections between signature local products and rural tourism development, in line with the resolution of the provincial Party Congress for the 2025–30 term.

In recent years, provincial departments and agencies have introduced various measures to support community-based and agricultural tourism sites in linking OCOP products to consumption channels. Promotional, marketing and sales activities have been integrated into the provincial tourism portal, enabling enterprises, cooperatives and household producers to expand their market reach.

At the same time, many homestay, farmstay and rural tourism models have been upgraded. OCOP product display areas at community tourism sites have also received financial support for construction, decoration and facility improvements to better serve visitors.

Đồng Tháp currently has 1,061 OCOP products. — VNA/VNS Photo

At Kỳ Lân honey tea tourism site in Mỹ Tho Ward, the OCOP display space has become a popular stop for visitors to shop and learn about local specialties. The integration of product showcases has enriched the visitor experience while enhancing the promotion of the locality’s image.

Meanwhile, Thảo Nguyên orchid garden in Thới Sơn Ward previously struggled to attract visitors due to limited differentiation from other eco-tourism sites. However, since being recognised as a three-star OCOP product in 2022, visitor numbers have risen significantly. The linkage has helped boost product consumption while adding value to local agricultural tourism.

In Mỹ Thọ Commune, The Mango Trail Farmstay capitalises on Đồng Tháp’s renowned mango brand. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Mekong Delta’s rural lifestyle, explore local customs and enjoy a variety of mango-based dishes alongside traditional regional cuisine. OCOP products are also displayed within the site to cater to both domestic and international tourists.

Another emerging attraction is the Thiên Ân green medicinal tourism site operated by Thiên Ân Cordyceps Company in Vĩnh Hựu Commune. Developed as a green tourism model, it combines wellness, nature exploration and agricultural experiences.

The site features more than 100 varieties of medicinal plants used in food and beverage preparation for visitors. Guests can also learn about cordyceps cultivation, explore wine cellars, make biscuits and incense, participate in folk games or even try rice planting. OCOP products derived from cordyceps are showcased on-site.

Cooperatives are also actively incorporating OCOP into experiential tourism. Đông Nghi Agricultural Cooperative in Long Hưng Commune, for instance, has developed a goat farm tourism model, introducing six organic OCOP product lines made from goat milk.

In addition, freeze-dried durian products rated four-star OCOP have gained recognition as outstanding rural industrial products at the national level in 2023, with consumer demand rising strongly in recent times.

Đặng Văn Tuấn, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Industry and Trade, said the sector is working with relevant agencies to expand OCOP display and introduction points, bringing local specialities closer to tourists and consumers.

By linking OCOP with tourism, many production facilities have proactively improved product quality, built brands and extended the agricultural value chain. This has contributed to job creation and income growth for rural residents.

Đồng Tháp currently has 106 tourism sites associated with agriculture, communities and traditional craft villages, of which 32 have been officially recognised as meeting tourism standards under the 2017 Tourism Law. The province has also developed 16 OCOP products serving tourism, including four four-star and 12 three-star products.

Integrating OCOP products into tourism spaces not only expands market access for agricultural goods but also creates distinctive experiences reflecting the identity of the Mekong Delta. From farmstays and community tourism to green agricultural experiences, the province is gradually transforming its rich agricultural resources into sustainable economic value, enhancing both rural development and tourism appeal. — VNS