According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), Vietnam now boasts over 16,000 OCOP-certified products, more than three times the number recorded in 2020.

Luc Ngan lychee is among five-star-rated products under the One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme.

Despite this impressive growth, fewer than 0.5% of OCOP products have attained the prestigious five-star rating, a distinction awarded only to the highest-quality, most authentic offerings.

MAE Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said the OCOP programme is more than just a tool to boost agricultural consumption. It serves as a critical platform for small-scale households, cooperatives, and traditional artisans to build brands and expand their reach to both domestic and international markets.

He underscored that the programme is being implemented with a commitment to quality over quantity.

“We are not chasing numbers or following trends. Our goal is to cultivate distinctive, high-value products that reflect the identity and spirit of their homeland,” he said.

The Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of packaging, describing it as a product’s first impression. Thoughtful design, he noted, can evoke a strong sense of place, especially for those far from home.

He likened the OCOP movement to a quiet yet steady current of local specialties, certified, traceable, and rich in cultural value.

According to the Deputy Minister, this current originates in rural villages, rooted in traditional craftsmanship, and is gradually flowing into broader domestic and international markets.

To ensure transparency and fairness, he called for strict, objective evaluation standards, particularly in light of the recent reorganisation of the National OCOP Council.

“Each star awarded must be well-deserved, it serves not only as official recognition but also as a passport to the market,” he said.

In an era of growing consumer demand for authenticity and traceability, OCOP products distinguish themselves through their verified origin, standardised packaging, and strong regional character.

“This is a subtle yet powerful competitive edge that not every product can claim,” he added.

The programme not only boosts rural incomes but also serves as a catalyst for transforming cultural values into economic assets, laying a solid foundation for the next phase of the national target programme on new rural development.

Nam reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to elevating OCOP products, expressing his hope that more of them will secure a strong presence in international markets.

He also underscored the key objectives set forth by the Prime Minister, which include developing stable raw material zones, fostering the involvement of businesses and cooperatives, applying science and technology, building strong brands, and ensuring accessible credit for producers.

Between November 2024 and April 2025, the council received 82 product submissions, primarily comprising food items, along with handicrafts, medicinal products, and one community-based tourism service, all showcasing strong local identity.

A total of 20 provinces and cities participated in the evaluation process, including first-time contributors such as Bac Lieu, Quang Binh, Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, and Binh Dinh.

Many of the submissions reflected regional strengths and the presence of centralised raw material zones, underscoring the OCOP programme’s role in fostering rural culture and creativity.

Bac Giang promotes OCOP products in Quang Ninh

BAC GIANG – Bac Giang showcased more than 30 signature products under One Commune One Product programme (OCOP) at the Red River Delta – Quang Ninh 2025 OCOP Fair, held at the Quang Ninh Planning, Fair and Exhibition Center. 

More than 8.8 billion VND supported OCOP products

BAC GIANG - Implementing Resolution No. 67/2023/NQ-HDND dated December 13, 2023 of the People's Council of Bac Giang province stipulating policies to encourage the development of products under One Commune One Product (OCOP) programme in the province during 2024-2025 period, up to now, the whole province has 188 products supported with a total amount of more than 8.8 billion VND (375,000 USD).  

Bac Giang endeavours to develop OCOP programme

BAC GIANG - Implementing the "One Commune, One Product" (OCOP) programme, in 2025, Bac Giang province is expected to have 323 products registering for the OCOP product classification and evaluation. For the sustainable and effective development of the OCOP movement, the establishment of OCOP sales points is essential.

Bac Giang: 323 products participate in OCOP evaluation, classification

BAC GIANG- The provincial People’s Committee of Bac Giang province has issued the plan No 15/KH-UBND to implement the one commune one product (OCOP) programme in 2025.

Bac Giang organizes OCOP Tet market

BAC GIANG - From January 20-23, the Provincial Cooperative Alliance organized the One Commune One Product (OCOP) Tet fair and Bac Giang specialties in 2025.