Farmer Hoang Thi Hung. (Photo: VOV)

In 2004, Hoang Thi Hung’s family moved to Ho Chi Minh city. One year later, they settled in Le Minh Xuan commune, Binh Chanh district and started raising cattle. Hung spent more than 4,300 USD in savings to buy 16 cows. After 16 years, her plantation now has 150 cows and oxen, including 50 milking cows.

“My family earns an average income of around 21,000 USD per year and expects the amount to double this year. Now, we have 150 cows and this number is expected to reach 180 in September,” said Hung.

Apart from cattle raising, Hung’s family invested money in 1,600 m2 for salangane to earn more income. She also raises chicken, ducks and grows vegetables for daily use. She starts her day at 2 a.m and finishes in late afternoon.

Hung’s husband, Pham Cong Nam said it is difficult to hire help with the farm work.

“It is not easy to hire someone to help us because she/ he complains that the farm work is so hard. Thus, we have to work all day,” he said.

In order to have healthy cows, Hung feeds them with grass and soybean meal instead of man-made food. A cow is sold at around 2,000 USD, earning them a profit of more than 400 USD.

“Ms. Hung’s family work very hard to develop their business. They also support many other local farmers in terms of farming techniques, seeds, and loans to develop their production,” said Nguyen Van Cua, Chairman of Le Minh Xuan commune’s Farmers’ Association.

Hoang Thi Hung has been a role model for successful business for many years. She has received the title of “Outstanding farmer of Ho Chi Minh city” for 4 consecutive years.