Development of Agricultural Cooperatives in Dak Lak Province: Barriers and Solutions

Abstract

Dak Lak has favorable conditions for agricultural development, with cooperative economics and agricultural cooperatives (ACs) playing a crucial role in enhancing production efficiency and rural development. By 2023, the province had 783 cooperatives, of which 536 operated in the agricultural sector. Although the number and quality of cooperatives are on the rise, the sector still faces several barriers, including limited management capacity, lack of capital, difficulties in accessing markets, and the application of science and technology. Some cooperatives are operating nominally, with weak connections to businesses and unclear economic effectiveness. To develop agricultural cooperatives effectively and sustainably, it is necessary to fully assess the barriers and propose solutions that are suitable for local conditions. Properly identifying these limitations will serve as the foundation for improving policies, enhancing cooperatives’ capacities, thereby promoting agricultural development and rural construction in Dak Lak province.