CABIN and Partners Host Mushroom Farmers’ Festival in Can Tho

CAN THO CITY, Vietnam – To accelerate the scaling and adoption of a rice straw‑based circular economy, CABIN project joined forces with Can Tho’s Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection, the Vietnam Rice Sector Association (VIETRISA), and Can Tho University to organize a vibrant Mushroom Farmers’ Festival at Tien Thuan Cooperative, Thanh Quoi Commune, Can Tho, Vietnam on September 23, 2025.

A Hands‑On Hub for Knowledge Exchange

The event served as a dynamic platform for learning and collaboration. Farmers from across Can Tho received practical, up‑to‑date information on two key applications of rice straw: Mushroom cultivation and Organic fertilizer production. Participants explored real‑world models of both indoor and outdoor straw mushroom farming. They also witnessed a live demonstration of mechanized composting using rice straw at the Tien Thuan Cooperative.

Learning from Experts and Peers

One of the festival’s highlights was the direct interaction between farmers, technical specialists, and experienced growers. Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and exchange insights with experts and earn proven techniques from fellow farmers successful in straw mushroom cultivation and organic fertilizer production. This face‑to‑face engagement gave participants a much clearer understanding of the methods—and the confidence to adapt and apply them to their own production conditions.

Toward a Scalable Circular Model

By turning rice straw into valuable products like mushrooms and compost, these practices reduce open burning, improve soil health, and create new income streams for farming communities. Events like this festival are crucial for spreading knowledge on the ground and building a resilient, low‑emission rice sector in Southeast Asia countries.