Promoting the application of technology in the development of collective economy and cooperatives

In fact, Bac Lieu has had positive changes in the development of collective economy in many fields. Collective economy, especially cooperatives, plays an important role in supporting production, increasing income and improving the lives of members, contributing to the socio-economic development of the locality.

The tarpaulin salt field of Dong Hai High-Tech Salt Production and Service Cooperative.

APPLICATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN COOPERATIVES

The province currently has 256 cooperatives, of which 219 are agricultural cooperatives, accounting for more than 85%. These cooperatives have created jobs for about 5,200 workers with an average income of 60 million VND/person/year. Each year, the province establishes an average of 30 new cooperatives, exceeding the assigned target. Cooperatives in the province mainly operate in the agricultural sector and have close links between cooperatives with each other, with enterprises and other economic organizations. Specifically, cooperatives have participated in linking the production and consumption of agricultural products, mainly rice, shrimp and aquatic products, helping farmers stabilize product output and increase income.

In the context of the increasingly developing digital economy, cooperatives in the province have realized the importance of digital transformation and the application of information technology in production and business. The Provincial Cooperative Union has proactively supported cooperatives in using digital platforms, from production management, product promotion to connecting with the market through e-commerce platforms. According to statistics, about 95 cooperatives (accounting for 37% of the total number of cooperatives in the province) have appropriate information technology equipment to apply management software, traceability and conduct online transactions. Many cooperatives have also participated in e-commerce platforms such as Postmart.vn and Voso.vn to bring their products to consumers more widely.

However, in addition to the achievements, digital transformation in the economic zone still faces many difficulties. Although there are some pioneering cooperatives applying technology to production activities, the number of cooperatives actually using digital technology in business activities is still quite low. In particular, agricultural cooperatives still face problems of lack of capital, skills, technology and access to digital platforms. Moreover, the policy to support digital transformation for cooperatives is still limited and not strong enough to help cooperatives maintain and expand the application of technology.

Ba Dinh Cooperative (Vinh Loc A Commune, Hong Dan District) applies scientific advances to rice-shrimp production with high efficiency. Photo: M.D

SOLUTIONS TO PROMOTE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Despite many efforts to promote digital transformation, cooperatives in the province still face some limitations, such as the majority of cooperative management staff have low qualifications and are less able to acquire new technological skills. Policies to support digital transformation and innovation are still lacking, failing to meet the actual needs of cooperatives. Many cooperatives are small in scale, lacking resources to invest in new technology and upgrade management systems. The cost of participating in e-commerce platforms and digital technology services is currently quite high compared to traditional channels, causing difficulties for cooperatives.

Mr. Nguyen Van Vu - Chairman of the Provincial Cooperative Union, said: To promote digital transformation and innovation in the economic and cooperative sectors, the province has implemented a number of practical solutions such as: Strengthening propaganda and dissemination of the benefits of applying digital technology and digital platforms, helping cooperatives and members understand the importance of digital transformation. Opening training courses on digital technology and digital transformation application for managers and cooperative members, especially in the use of management software and sales through e-commerce platforms. There should be support policies to help cooperatives access financial resources and technology software, reducing costs of participating in digital technology services. Creating conditions for pioneering cooperatives, successful in digital transformation to share experiences, build model models for replication throughout the province. Strengthening connections with partners in the innovation ecosystem, helping cooperatives participate in the global supply chain, improving competitiveness...

The collective economy and cooperatives in the province are facing a great opportunity for sustainable development through digital transformation and innovation. However, for this sector to truly develop its full potential, strong support from authorities at all levels and relevant organizations is needed. Investing in digital transformation not only helps cooperatives develop production and business but also contributes to the overall development of the provincial economy.

MINH DAT

Source: https://www.baobaclieu.vn/kinh-te/thuc-day-ung-dung-cong-nghe-trong-phat-trien-kinh-te-tap-the-hop-tac-xa-99648.html