Vietnamese durian exports drop 69% in early 2025

In the first two months of 2025, durian fell behind dragon fruit and banana in Vietnam’s fruit export rankings. Customs data shows dragon fruit exports reached $93.8 million, bananas $71.8 million, while durian dropped 69% year-on-year to $52.7 million. Exports to China, the main market, plunged 83% to $27 million.

The decline is linked to tougher quality controls. China has increased testing for Auramine O, a banned chemical, while the U.S. now restricts seven pesticides and requires approved growing and packaging sites. The EU has also raised durian inspection rates to 20%.

Many Vietnamese growers face challenges managing cadmium levels and maintaining post-harvest quality. High-grade durians command premium prices, but only a small portion of production meets export standards.

Exports to Japan and South Korea remain stable, and businesses hope shipments will recover as frozen durians to China ramp up, especially with the main harvest starting in June.

source: vnexpress.net

photo: vietnamesecuisines.com