Exposing the Fraud

Recent reports have unveiled a concerning trend in Vietnam's durian exports to China, involving the use of counterfeit codes. Dang Phuc Nguyen, the general secretary, highlighted the surge in complaints from genuine exporters about this fraudulent practice.

The Mechanism of the Scam

Only durians from approved farming areas and packaging facilities, recognized by Chinese authorities, are permitted for export. However, fraudsters have been misusing these codes, leading to unauthorized shipments. A notable case involves Vina T&T's packaging facility code, which was forged to allow another company to export durians to China.

Consequences and Calls for Action

This malpractice not only threatens the reputation of legitimate exporters but has also led to financial losses and the revocation of some codes by Chinese customs. The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association is urging for stricter oversight, the establishment of a comprehensive database for better code management, and collaboration with importing countries to curb such violations.

Looking Forward

Despite these challenges, Vietnam's durian exports are projected to reach $3.2 billion this year, marking a 40% increase from 2023. The introduction of processed durian products, which offer higher value, is expected to further boost exports in the coming year.