Vietnam’s durian exports reached a new record, generating more than $3.33 billion in the first 10 months of the year—a 10.4% increase from the same period last year, according to customs data.
The fruit continues to be the leading source of the nation’s agricultural export earnings.
China made up $3.14 billion of Vietnam’s durian exports, representing 94% of the total and marking a 14% year-on-year increase.
Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, stated that Vietnamese durian exports have experienced significant growth, despite stricter inspections by China for prohibited substances, driven by improved quality and competitive pricing.
A ton of Vietnamese durian was sold abroad at an average price of $3,696, about 15% less than Thailand’s rate, positioning Vietnam as China’s second-largest supplier of durian, following Thailand.
Following China’s stricter quality standards, numerous Vietnamese exporters upgraded cold storage and packaging facilities and created their own brands.
Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has implemented a quality control system for durian exports.
Exports to other markets also experienced significant growth. Imports by Hong Kong increased by almost 89%, exceeding $45 million, while Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Japan, and Canada also boosted their purchases.
However, analysts caution that Vietnam should avoid depending too much on a single product like durian, which currently makes up over half of its fruit and vegetable exports.
Analysts also emphasized that, to maintain growth and enhance its standing in key markets, the agricultural sector should diversify its offerings, improve cold-chain infrastructure, and strengthen quarantine and storage quality standards.
Nguyen projected that, given the current growth rate and indicators, Vietnam’s durian exports could surpass $4 billion this year, reaching an all-time high.
TRADE TECH | U.S. Senators Unveil Bill to Block AI Chip Exports to China
