Durian prices drop in Vietnam as exports face stricter quality checks

Durian prices in Vietnam have continued to fall into February, especially affecting farmers in the Mekong Delta. Normally, off-season durian is scarce, keeping prices high, but this year is different, according to local media.

Compared to mid-January, prices have dropped by around $0.42 to $1.27 per kilogram. As of February 12, Ri6 durian sells for $1.78 to $1.91 per kilogram in bulk, while higher-grade fruit costs about $2.75 per kilogram.

Thai durian prices range from $2.41 to $2.83 per kilogram, with top-quality ones reaching $3.40. Farmers and exporters say the price drop is mainly because of China’s stricter quality checks and weaker demand after the Lunar New Year. Earlier in 2024, durian prices had peaked at $8.06 per kilogram, but concerns over yellow O chemical residues led to tougher import standards.

Tien Giang province, a key durian-growing area, has seen prices fall by $2.11 to $4.23 per kilogram since early January. Vietnam remains China’s second-biggest durian supplier, though fruit and vegetable exports in January fell 11.3% from the previous month to $416 million. Authorities urge farmers to meet China’s quality requirements, hoping that better compliance will stabilize prices and support future exports.

source: vietnam.vn

photo: channelnewsasia.com