This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of high-producing, farmer-preferred chicken genotypes in Vietnam. Two imported egg-laying breeds, Tetra Tint and Novogen, were selected to assess their adaptability, growth, and reproductive performance up to 72 weeks of age under smallholder conditions. 

Both imported breeds demonstrated markedly better performance than local chickens. Local breeds produced only 86–117 eggs per hen over 72 weeks, with a feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 3.32–5.12 kg per 10 eggs. In contrast, Tetra Tint and Novogen achieved 216–235 and 241–264 eggs, respectively, with improved feed efficiency (1.60–1.88 and 1.53–1.67 kg per 10 eggs). 

Both breeds adapted well to tropical and smallholder environments; however, Novogen showed slightly better performance in egg production, feed efficiency, and laying stability across regions. These findings suggest that Novogen is a promising layer breed for smallholder systems in Vietnam, with potential to enhance productivity, improve cost efficiency, and strengthen rural livelihoods.