Agricultural economic development in Hue City: From the current situation to strategies for developing multi-value circular agricultural economy

Abstract

This study examines the current status of agricultural economic development in Hue City, with a focus on the transition from a conventional production model toward a circular economy and multifunctional agriculture. Secondary data covering the 2020–2024 period were used to assess growth trends, labour productivity, value added, and the potential circularity of material flows in agriculture. The study employed descriptive statistics, compound annual growth rate analysis, and an exploratory material flow analysis based on secondary data. The findings show that the agricultural sector maintained growth in absolute value, while its contribution to GRDP gradually declined over time. The production system continued to depend on chemical inputs, and the reuse of agricultural by-products remained limited. Nevertheless, the locality has considerable potential to develop a circular and multifunctional agricultural economy through the utilization of agricultural by-products, organic farming, agritourism, and green value-chain linkages. Accordingly, the study proposes a three-level transition pathway comprising cleaner production, intersectoral circular linkages, and the development of a zero-waste agricultural ecosystem, with the aim of promoting sustainable, circular, and multifunctional development.