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 eq ual land distribution in the Red River delta, the differences in socioecono mic conditions and farming skills of farm households resulted in the differ ent efficiency of resource use and farm household income. This study was ca rried out to analyze characteristics and income status of farm households i n the Red River delta of Vietnam. A questionnaire survey on characteristics of farm households and results of production activities was conducted to c ollect necessary data. Results of the study indicated that there were diffe rences in income structures, in scopes and outcomes of farming and non-farm ing 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 im prove the life quality of farmers in the delta.