Ho chi minh city: Ho Chi Minh City will focus on developing ecological urban agriculture in the coming period, according to the city People's Committee Office. Following the merger with Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau provinces, the city now has more than 453,900 hectares of agricultural land - nearly four times the area before merger - spanning 168 commune-level administrative units. This expansion creates new space, potential and comparative advantages for agricultural development. By 2026, the agricultural sector aims to build a modern urban agriculture system, shifting from a production-focused approach to an agricultural economic mindset, and developing multi-functional, multi-value agriculture. According to Vietnam News Agency, the newly merged land provides Ho Chi Minh City with increased opportunities for agricultural growth. The focus will be on creating an urban agriculture system that not only meets the production demands but also enhances economic value through diverse agricultural practices. The city aims to utilize the new agricultural space efficiently, transforming it into a hub for ecological urban agriculture. This new direction will require a shift from traditional agricultural methods to more innovative and sustainable practices that align with urban settings. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize and diversify the agricultural sector, making it more resilient and adaptive to changing urban needs. The emphasis on ecological and multi-functional agriculture is expected to contribute significantly to the city's economic development, offering new business opportunities and improving food security. The integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices is anticipated to be a cornerstone of this transformation, offering a model for future urban agricultural development.