Alternative crops for climate adaptation in low-lying regions: The case of lotus farming in Thua Thien Hue Province, Central Vietnam

Crop conversion from rice to alternative crops has gained momentum in many Southeast Asian countries as a strategy to adapt to climate change and strengthen rural livelihoods. This research examines lotus farming in Thua Thien Hue Province, one of the nation’s most climate-vulnerable regions. We used a mixed-methods approach that included key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and a household survey with 95 lotus farmers. The shift to lotus cultivation was driven by the poor performance of rice in low-lying areas and farmers’ expectations of higher returns. Crop conversion policies also improved land access for many households. Although lotus is considered a high-value crop and plays an important role in land-use strategies for flood-prone areas, benefit–cost analysis showed it was economically unviable for most households in 2024. Smallholders relying on family labor tended to earn higher returns, creating a paradox where larger-scale operations did not improve profitability. Repeated crop failures from nematode infestations and extreme weather, combined with high production costs, created significant constraints, particularly for larger farms. Improving the sustainability of lotus and other alternative crops will require promoting indigenous lotus varieties, expanding mechanization, and strengthening post-harvest practices to increase efficiency and resilience.