The shift comes as conventional pepper farming faces declining efficiency due to plant disease and heavy reliance on chemical inputs. In response, producers are adopting environmentally friendly practices and forming partnerships with export-oriented enterprises to stabilize output and pricing.
Hai Yang organic pepper cooperative, based in Mang Yang commune, is among the early adopters. Established in 2016, the cooperative has built a production model linked closely with export buyers. Its members have reduced chemical fertilizer and pesticide use, instead applying organic and biological inputs throughout cultivation and harvesting.
The cooperative currently has 15 members managing pepper farms across several localities, with around 8 hectares certified to meet U.S. and European organic standards. Annual output exceeds 70 tonnes, all supplied to export markets.
Organic production has also delivered clear economic benefits. While conventional pepper prices fluctuate at around 30,000-40,000 VND per kilogram (approximately $1.20-$1.60), organic pepper maintains a stable price above 90,000 VND per kilogram (about $3.60), ensuring stronger returns for farmers.
Similar models are expanding across the province. Nam Yang Agricultural and Service Cooperative has developed certified organic pepper products meeting national 5-star OCOP standards and exporting to multiple markets. Linh Nham Cooperative is also scaling up organic production with strict quality control and traceability systems.
According to provincial data, Gia Lai currently has about 8,400 hectares of pepper plantations, producing over 27,600 tonnes annually. Authorities are promoting organic cultivation, certified production, and export traceability, including granting export codes to three growing areas serving the Chinese market.
Experts say the integration of farmers, cooperatives, and enterprises is key to meeting international standards, reducing input costs, and increasing value per hectare. The province is continuing to prioritize sustainable practices, improved varieties, and technological adoption to strengthen its pepper industry in global markets.