Evolution of Agricultural Mechanization in Vietnam: Insights from a Literature Review and Multiple Rounds of a Farm Household Survey

Despite the reportedly rapid growth of mechanization, as well as its unique history in economic and social systems, information on the patterns of agricultural mechanization growth in Vietnam has been limited. Through an extensive review of existing literature and several rounds of nationally representative household survey data, we document the evolution of mechanization (particularly tractors and combine harvesters) in Vietnam, including the heterogeneity across regions and farm sizes, and the emerging roles of the private sector in the supply of machinery and hiring services. The historical growth pattern of mechanization in Vietnam had been non-linear, characterized by somewhat high tractor-use prior to 1975 followed by a decline in the 80s before a resurgence in the 90s, with considerable variations in adoption patterns across regions.