The Mekong Delta in Vietnam, a major food-producing region with millions of dedicated farmers, has been facing various threats due to rising sea levels, groundwater extraction, droughts, and saltwater intrusion. Saltwater intrusion, in particular, endangers agriculture, causing crop failures and freshwater shortages, resulting in the economic and social consequences, ultimately leading farmers to abandon their lands and migrate to cities. To address this critical issue, Mekong Salt Lab project has been established to develop an action-oriented centre of expertise that supports farmers to respond and adapt to salinisation.

The pilot project kicked off in Tra Vinh, a coastal province in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Located between two major branches of the Mekong River and directly exposed to the sea, Tra Vinh faces various delta challenges, with saltwater intrusion being a significant concern. In the initial phase, the project team conducted site visits and household surveys to understand the impact of saltwater intrusion, observe how local farmers adapt to salinized soil, and explore its broader consequences. Simultaneously, capacity building initiatives took place at Tra Vinh University, and the organizational framework for the Mekong Salt Lab was collaboratively developed with project partners and local stakeholders. Subsequently, the Mekong Salt Lab Center was established at Tra Vinh University, marking a significant milestone. The dedicated online platform for the program was also officially launched, making crucial information accessible to the wider public.