An analysis on income status of farm households - A case study in the Red River Delta of Vietnam -

Since 1988 with the effect of agricultural policy reform, farm household in Vietnam has been considered as an autonomous economic unit. Despite the equal land distribution in the Red River delta, the differences in socioeconomic conditions and farming skills of farm households resulted in the different efficiency of resource use and farm household income. This study was carried out to analyze characteristics and income status of farm households in the Red River delta of Vietnam. A questionnaire survey on characteristics of farm households and results of production activities was conducted to collect necessary data. Results of the study indicated that there were differences in income structures, in scopes and outcomes of farming and non-farming activities according to locations and farm household groups due to the various socioeconomic conditions in farm households. The diversification of farm household economy through the simultaneous development of farming and non-farming activities was the appropriate way to alleviate poverty and improve the life quality of farmers in the delta.