Vietnam's Fruit and Vegetable Exports Soar by 27%

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association has reported a significant increase in exports, with a 27% surge based on customs data. This growth is particularly notable in major markets, where exports have seen double-digit increases.

In the first ten months of the year, exports to China rose by 30% year-on-year to $4.1 billion. Meanwhile, shipments to the U.S., South Korea, and Thailand saw jumps of 35%, 41%, and 70%, respectively.

Durian Dominates Export Market

Durian emerged as the best-selling item, accounting for over $3 billion worth of fruit and vegetable exports during this period. China alone accounted for $3 billion of this total. Vietnam currently holds a 39% market share, second only to Thailand's 60.2%.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, the general secretary of the association, highlighted China's high demand for fruits and vegetables, particularly Vietnamese durian. He anticipates that if exports continue to grow at current rates, Vietnam could surpass Thailand as China's top durian supplier within the next year or two.

Record-Breaking Year Expected

Nguyen expects fruit and vegetable exports to reach a record $7 billion this year. This growth is partly driven by new approvals for exporting frozen durian and fresh coconut to China, leading to large contracts being signed by exporters.

Additionally, products like coconut and passion fruit are gaining popularity in the U.S., while Thailand has increased imports of Vietnamese fruits due to weather-related production issues in its own country.