Vietnam’s durian exports drop, imports surge

Between January and April 2025, Vietnam imported $9.3 million worth of durians, nearly six times higher than the same period last year, despite being one of the world’s top durian producers. The spike in imports contrasts sharply with the country’s growing domestic output, which reached over 1.5 million tonnes in 2024.

Industry sources attribute the rising imports to the popularity of premium foreign varieties, especially Malaysia’s Musang King, which enjoys strong branding and global recognition. Although Vietnam cultivates Musang King locally in Dong Nai, Dak Lak, and the Mekong Delta, output remains limited and often out of sync with market demand.

Most imported durians arrive as frozen pulp or whole fruit from Malaysia and Thailand, targeting upscale retail chains and convenience stores in urban centres like Ho Chi Minh City. Prices can exceed VND1 million ($38.3) per kilogram, but demand remains high among Vietnamese consumers seeking branded, high-end products.

Experts point out that imports are driven not by shortage, but by variety preference and year-round availability. Meanwhile, local types such as Ri6 and Monthong have seen sharp price drops, currently selling at VND35,000–80,000 ($1.3–3.1) per kilogram due to oversupply and stricter export controls.

Export revenue from Vietnamese durians plunged to $130 million in the first four months of 2025, down from $500 million a year earlier. The dip is linked to tighter inspection measures in China, especially concerning chemical residues.

Despite having expanded durian cultivation from 32,000 hectares in 2015 to nearly 180,000 hectares by 2024, Vietnam’s industry still faces quality, branding, and market diversification challenges. Analysts stress the need for a long-term national strategy to build competitive domestic varieties and protect market share.

While the country earned over $3.2 billion in durian exports in 2024, a clear shift in consumer preference highlights the growing influence of branding and consistent supply over price and local availability.

source: news.tuoitre.vn

photo: vietnamplus.vn