Chia Seed Cultivation in Vietnam’s Northeastern Highlands - Field Report by KBC-LINK
- KBC-LINK Editor
- Dec 1
- 4 min read
Through the introduction of the Vietnam Cooperative Alliance (VCA), KBC-LINK conducted an on-site inspection of the chia seed project operated by Global Green House Cooperative (GHCOOP). The visit took place in Muong Kim Commune, Lai Chau Province, located in the northwestern highlands of Vietnam. In this mountainous region, where ethnic minority communities practice traditional natural farming, the combination of their methods with technical support from the Center for Technology Transfer and Agricultural Extension (CETDAE) has enabled the cultivation of high-quality chia seeds.
On a cold, rainy morning in November, we departed Hanoi shortly before 5:00 a.m. We made smooth progress on the highway at first, then crossed multiple fog-covered mountain roads, passed through Sapa—famous for its terraced rice fields—and continued over another mountain pass before heading to Muong Kim Commune in Lai Châu Province.
We arrived at the People's Committee of Muong Kim Commune, located in a “basin above the clouds,” at around 3:00 p.m. After exchanging greetings with the committee officials and members of the Center for Technology Transfer and Agricultural Extension (CETDAE) who had come from Hanoi, we were guided to the chia seed fields, reaching the site just before 4:00 p.m.
We received a detailed explanation from Mr. Nguyen Van Thang, Chairman of the People's Council. Surrounded by mountains, the unique highland plateau of the area was immediately apparent, giving us a strong sense of the region’s distinct character as a production area. Although the harvest season had already passed, the committee later shared in their assembly hall the breathtaking scenery of delicate purple-blue chia flowers spreading across the highlands.
Why has a Central/South American superfood evolved into high-quality chia seeds in Vietnam’s northeastern mountains?
Behind this success lies more than a favorable climate. It is the result of a multi-layered ecosystem involving ethnic minority traditions, local government support, and advanced agricultural science.
🏞️ Fusion of Tradition and Science
Ethnic minority natural farming meets national agricultural technology
Muong Kim Commune is home to ethnic minority communities that have preserved natural farming methods for generations, not using chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Their knowledge and dedication help maintain farmland that is close to organic standards—an ideal foundation for cultivating high-quality chia.
This is complemented by technical assistance from the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences (VAAS), which introduced modern chia cultivation techniques and management know-how.
The synergy of traditional natural farming and scientific agricultural practices has enabled the successful production of premium chia seeds, unlocking the full potential of this unique region.
🔬 Scientific Validation
A climate similar to chia’s native habitat and joint studies proving high Omega-3 content
Behind today’s thriving, high-quality Chia fields lie the enduring marks of those who laid the foundation for the Chia plant to take root in Vietnam. At the forefront is Ms. Vu Thi Thanh Huyen — General Director of the Global Green House Cooperative and founder of the ChicoChia brand — who has led the project from its very first steps: from managing seed varieties, overseeing cultivation and production, to delivering the final products into the hands of consumers. Accompanying her pioneering journey is a dedicated team of scientists and colleagues who, since 2012, have tirelessly researched, refined, and established an organic farming process that meets international standards. Their commitment, perseverance, and belief in Vietnamese agriculture have shaped the vibrant Chia fields we see today.
ChicoChia brand went through a strict and rigorous testing to become an official member of the Vietnam Association for Anti-Counterfeiting and Trademark Protection (VATAP), also honored of the Top 10 prestigious national brands in 2025.
https://chonghanggiavatap.vn/
The nutritional composition of Chia seeds is tested by the Institute of Science Technology and Environment (INOSTE), the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS), the National Institute of Nutrition (VDD), and the National Institute of Medicinal Materials (NIMM).
🌱 Creating Value: From Agricultural Product to Functional Food
The project was initiated by Ms. Vu Thi Thanh Huyen, President of GHCOOP and a devoted admirer of chia flowers. By leveraging the collaboration of ethnic minority communities, local authorities, and national-level technical support, this circular project brings together regional resources, cultural heritage, and technology to add high value to chia seeds. It transforms agricultural products from mere raw materials into functional foods, creating a system that returns benefits to the local economy and contributes to the health and well-being of the community.
📈 Future Development: Expanding Impact Across Regions and Communities
GHCOOP is working to expand organic chia farming areas, enhance processed product lines, enter the Halal food market, and generate employment to reduce poverty in ethnic minority and mountain communities. With chia cultivation at its core, the organization is steadily advancing regional revitalization, job creation, and health-focused product development.
If you are interested in this chia project, we encourage you to visit the ChicoChia Experience Center at: 39 Khuc Thua Du, Cau Giay, Hanoi
🌎 The Story and Future of Vietnam-Grown Chia
Originally from Central and South America, chia seeds are now unlocking new possibilities in the northeastern highlands of Vietnam. The traditions of ethnic minority communities, the blessings of fertile land, administrative support, and scientific technology all intersect to create the unique value of Vietnam-grown chia.
KBC-LINK continues its mission to connect the potential of Vietnam’s regions with global markets. Together with GHCOOP, we are now seeking "import" partners in Japan and abroad to support the international expansion of this high-quality “Vietnamese Chia.”
For companies interested in participating in this project or learning more, please feel free to contact us: https://kbc-link.com/agriculture/ghcoop-chicochia?lang=en#contact-information
