Page 15 - Đặc trưng và đổi mới kinh tế - xã hội - văn hóa của Đồng bằng sông Cửu Long trong bối cảnh mới

The inherent strengths of the region also pose limitations for the
development of infrastructure and civil engineering projects to support
current and future socio-economic growth. The waterway transport system
plays a crucial role in connecting the region to both domestic and global
networks. However, the natural ecological features of the region cause
fragmentation in development, high construction costs, and a lack of
coordination between different transportation methods and the connection
between residential areas and public facilities. The effects of climate change,
rising sea levels, and abnormal changes in the Mekong River's hydrology,
along with the shifts of socio-economic changes in the region, raise the need
for preserving the unique "river culture" and capitalizing on its advantages.
Simultaneously, innovations in planning and construction are required,
ensuring harmony with natural ecosystems while building resilience to
natural changes to meet socio-economic development goals.
Agricultural economics forms the foundation, but industry, trade,
and services based on the natural ecosystems play an important role in
enhancing the value of indigenous ecosystems and driving socio-
economic development. The development of ecologically oriented
agriculture should emphasize the value chain approach of agricultural
ecosystems instead of specific commodity chains. The growth of industries,
trade, and services has been continuing important in boosting the regional
economy, creating job opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of its
people. However, the industrial, service, and trade sectors, built on the
agricultural advantages, have experienced slow growth. Therefore, promoting
the development of industry, services, and trade based on agriculture and
ecosystem services requires improving product quality, developing logistics
systems, and upgrading transportation infrastructure. Policies aimed at
strengthening education and training, creating an enabling environment for
innovation and business, and shifting business and consumption behaviours
in line with the local ecosystem are essential.

Community-based agribusiness models are essential for achieving
sustainable development. Indigenous products not only create economic
values but also contribute to preserving cultural values and fostering rural
socio-economic development. Supportive government policies and active
stakeholder engagement are crucial for building the capacity of farmers,
farmer-based organizations, and small-scale enterprises, developing agro-
ecological value chains, and ultimately improving community livelihoods.

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