Some positive changes can now be seen in some villages in the central province of Binh Dinh. However, brand-building for these traditional products still remains a problem.
Noodle making is a traditional craft in An Thai Ward. The craft has been revitalised recently thanks to the new rural construction policy. And this has brought about positive changes in the lives of residents here.
Bui Thi Le, Noodle maker, An Thai Ward said: "Noodle making has been around for many years. Anyone can do this. We can earn 100-150 thousand dong a day from it."
Vo Van Tam, Noodle maker, An Thai Ward said: "In the past, it was hard for us to find buyers. But now, our lives are improving as there are more consumers.
New jobs and higher incomes have improved living standards in the ward. However, the noodles are only bought by people in the local area. They have appeared in some supermarkets but are largely only available in the area around the town.
Lack of modern production methods and particularly, a lack of market information are the reasons why the products of many craft villages here fail to develop into well-known brands.
Ho Van Rang, Noodle maker said: "Very few people outside know of this craft. Only people in Binh Dinh province are familiar with our products."
The provincial department of science and technology has been helping craft villages here register their intellectual property rights and create a website to promote their products. However, such efforts remain inconsistent and ineffective. Much needs to be done to help local residents build and maintain the brands of their products.
