Can Tho, Vietnam, September 13, 2025 – The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) - Vietnam Office recently showcased four fertilizer technologies developed through the Fertilize Right (FerRight) project funded by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at the recent Vietnam-US Friendship Exchange Festival. The said event was held to celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The FerRight Project focuses on proper fertilizer application methods to optimize nutrient use efficiency. During the event, it highlighted four categories of innovative fertilizers developed through strategic partnerships with US companies, including Innova AG and Biowish Technologies. These fertilizers include:

• Slow/controlled-release fertilizers using advanced coating technology.
• Nanofertilizers with enhanced delivery systems.
• Biofertilizers that utilize beneficial microorganisms.
• Biostimulants incorporating organic compounds.

Recent studies have demonstrated that these new technologies can reduce fertilizer costs, maintain yields, improve nutrient use efficiency, and enhance plant stress tolerance when integrated with precision agriculture practices.

One of FerRight project’s private sector partners, MTK Fertilizer Company, has secured exclusive distribution rights for Innova AG's Phosphorus, Potassium, and Magnesium (PKME) and Bio-Act technology (BCT) product lines, which are being manufactured using modern production systems with raw materials imported directly from the United States.

In addition to promoting high-efficiency fertilizers, FerRight also pushes for sustainable agriculture through a rice straw-to-fertilizer circular economy system. This innovative approach converts agricultural waste into valuable organic fertilizers through integrated mushroom cultivation and composting processes.

Farmers first use rice straw substrates to cultivate mushrooms and the spent growing medium is then converted into nutrient-rich organic compost for field application. This circular model eliminates open-field burning, reduces carbon emissions, and creates multiple income streams from the sale of rice, mushrooms, and organic fertilizer. It also improves soil health and supports sustainable farming practices.

These initiatives are positioned to support Vietnam's robust agricultural exports. In the first half of 2025, Can Tho’s exports to the United States reached $228 million, primarily consisting of rice, seafood, processed agricultural products, textiles, and handicrafts.

With Can Tho’s administrative expansion to include Hau Giang and Soc Trang provinces effective July 1, 2025, the FerRight project is well-positioned to scale its innovative fertilizer technologies across a broader agricultural landscape. This will also support Mekong Delta’s 2030 vision of becoming an ecological growth center.

As US Consul General Melissa A. Brown stated, "this [Vietnam-US Friendship] festival demonstrates how two nations can work together to create opportunities for agricultural cooperation and shared progress."