In January 2026, NIFAM partners gathered in Hanoi, Vietnam, for a project workshop focused on reviewing progress and strengthening collaboration. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on ongoing research activities and discuss the rapidly transforming food environment in Vietnam’s capital.
Discussions during the workshop highlighted how Hanoi’s food system is evolving with increasing diversity in food supply channels. Alongside traditional markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce platforms are playing a growing role in shaping food access and consumption patterns. These developments are central to NIFAM’s efforts to support evidence-based nutritional interventions in Vietnam.
Experiencing Hanoi’s Vegetable Markets First-Hand
As part of the workshop programme, participants had the opportunity to explore Hanoi’s vegetable market. The tour aimed to deepen understanding of how vegetables are sourced and distributed across the city and how these systems have evolved over time. The visit began with an outing to Ta Hien Street, where participants were introduced to Hanoi’s vibrant street food culture and received an overview of the historical transition of vegetable markets in the city.
In the early hours of the following morning, the group visited Long Bien wholesale market, one of Hanoi’s major distribution hubs. Observing the market at peak activity provided valuable insight into large-scale supply chains and the movement of fresh produce into the city.
Later visits included Dong Xuan market an iconic and touristic site and Bac Tom Nguyen Cong Tru, where participants learned more about the history and current development of local vegetable trade. Beyond the colourful displays and lively atmosphere, the tour offered a grounded perspective on the everyday realities of food distribution in Hanoi.
School Garden Visits
In the afternoon, the group visited Genesis School and Hermann Gmeiner School to review the status of their school garden initiatives. These visits focused on exchanging insights about achievements, challenges, and future plans related to both the original and expanded school gardens.
The school garden component reflects NIFAM’s broader commitment to strengthening nutrition-sensitive environments by connecting food systems, education, and community engagement. Participants discussed opportunities for documenting and sharing the schools’ experiences as blog-based case studies to support knowledge exchange within the project network.
Continuing Collaboration
The Hanoi workshop combined academic discussion with field-based learning, offering participants a comprehensive view of the city’s dynamic food environment.
We thank all partners and participants for their engagement and commitment, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to advance sustainable and nutrition-sensitive food systems in Vietnam.
