PRODUCT LIST
Cao Phong orange is a renowned specialty of the Northwest region of Vietnam, primarily cultivated in Cao Phong district, Hoa Binh province. With its sweet, juicy taste and delicate fragrance, Cao Phong orange has gained a strong reputation in the domestic market and shows great potential for export. Thanks to its superior quality, it is honored as the “Golden Orange of Muong Land” – a source of pride for Hoa Binh province.
Cao Phong Orange. Illustrative archival photo.
On November 4, 2014, the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam granted Geographical Indication Registration Certificate No. 00063 for the product “Cam Cao Phong”, with the People’s Committee of Hoa Binh province as the managing organization.
This fruit has become a cultural symbol of the poetic Muong region, appearing in Vietnamese folk verse:
“Cao Phong oranges are sweet all year round
Once tasted, the flavor lingers – a memory of the Muong land”
Notable Morphological Characteristics:
Cao Phong oranges are round or slightly flattened, with thin, smooth skin that turns bright orange when ripe and is easy to peel. The flesh is thick, segments are uniform, juicy, with a mildly sweet and slightly tangy flavor, and a distinct aroma. Each fruit weighs around 200–300g. The Brix level ranges from 10–12%, and vitamin C content is 40–50 mg/100g, higher than many other varieties.
Geographical Factors:
Cao Phong oranges are grown on hilly terrain with feralit soil formed on limestone, deep and fertile, with a pH of 5.5–6.5. The region’s climate features cool winters, misty conditions, humid summers, and an average rainfall of 1,700–2,000 mm/year, ideal for sugar and flavor accumulation in the fruit.
Human Factors:
Cao Phong farmers have been cultivating oranges since the 1960s, accumulating experience in seed selection, organic fertilization, natural flower induction, and proper harvesting techniques. In recent years, cooperatives and farmers have adopted VietGAP standards, implemented plantation area codes and traceability systems, enhancing the fruit's quality, yield, and export potential.
Protected Geographical Area:
The geographical indication covers Tay Phong, Bac Phong, Dong Phong, Tan Phong, Nam Phong communes, and Cao Phong town, located in Cao Phong district, Hoa Binh province – the heart of northern Vietnam’s most famous orange-growing region.
