Vietnam’s durian exports rebound after slow start to the year

Vietnam’s durian industry is regaining momentum after a slow start to the year. According to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, exports were weak in the first quarter, with monthly revenue staying below $100 million. By April, figures inched above that mark, but the real recovery began in May, when exports jumped to $204 million.

The surge continued into early summer. June exports exceeded $300 million, and July is estimated to bring in $350‑400 million. Officials project that durian export revenue will surpass $1 billion in the first seven months of 2025, despite the cumulative total for January to May being only $387 million — nearly 58% lower than the same period last year.

Huynh Tan Dat, director of the Plant Protection Department, said frozen durian shipments have grown strongly, and the main export season is now underway as the Central Highlands enters its peak harvest. Vietnam is working closely with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) to ensure smooth trade.

GACC has expanded Vietnam’s access to the Chinese market, approving over 1,400 growing area codes and 131 packing facility codes by the end of May. In June, Chinese inspectors visited farms and facilities, praised Vietnam’s quality management, and signaled support for faster customs clearance in the coming months.

Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said the sector is on a positive path, as earlier issues with banned substances like auramine O and cadmium have been resolved. With new “green channels” for fresh fruit during harvest peaks, Vietnam’s durian exports are expected to keep rising through the end of the year.

source: vietnamnet.vn

photo: innoviet.com