Quang Nam organizes A Rieu Chili Festival for the first time

Dong Giang is known as the “capital” of A Rieu chili, which is grown mostly in the communes of Ma Cooih and A So. Over the years, from a wild plant growing in the forest, A Rieu chili has helped many Co Tu people improve their economy and reduce poverty.

To replicate this model, Dong Giang in particular and Quang Nam province in general have provided many policies and support in terms of seedlings and techniques to help households gradually expand their acreage. With the current selling price of fresh chili, around 200,000 - 300,000 VND/kg, many households earn tens of millions of VND each year.

Mr. Do Huu Tung - Vice Chairman of Dong Giang District People's Committee, said: The organization of the A Rieu Chili Festival aims to introduce and promote tourism and A Rieu chili products associated with the development of medicinal plants and eco-tourism to tourists inside and outside the province. Stimulate the eco-tourism destination of Cong Troi associated with the development of A Rieu chili products, creating conditions for connecting tourist tours in the coming time.

“The festival also aims to mobilize cooperatives, cooperative groups and households to connect and introduce local agricultural products, especially A Rieu chili, a product of Dong Giang mountains and forests. Connecting supply and demand, cooperating and linking, creating opportunities for exchange and sharing of experiences in the production process, accessing information and new technologies in the agricultural sector,” Mr. Tung added.

Cultural activities at the festival include: Photo exhibition of agricultural products and OCOP products; culinary display, presentation contest to promote traditional dishes and A Rieu chili products; gong and drum dance contest with sacred fire.

Besides, a group of artisans, actors, and athletes from communes, towns, and Dong Giang Heaven Gate Eco-Tourism Area will parade and carry sacred objects (A Rieu chili) from the main gate to the Ngan River Square area (located in the tourist area).

In addition, Dong Giang district also organizes sports activities and folk games at the festival such as the cross-country mountain climbing event "Conquering the Heaven's Gate Peak", swimming, slingshot shooting, and A Rieu chili eating contest with Quang noodles.