Tien Giang durian harvest challenges amid rising prices

Durian farmers in Tien Giang, Vietnam, are enduring a particularly tough season, even as fruit prices have risen. Normally, the harvest period for durian orchards in regions like Cai Be and Cai Lay runs from November through the start of the following year. However, this season’s harvest has fallen well below expectations, as noted by local sources.

As one of Vietnam’s leading durian production areas, Tien Giang significantly contributes to the country’s annual yield of around 330,000 tons. Farmer Nguyen Van Dang mentioned that durian is currently fetching about 200,000 VND per kilogram, roughly $7.90, which is double the usual price. Despite the high prices, the harvest has been underwhelming. Many farmers, including Dang, had prepared their trees for the dry season, but unexpected weather changes led to widespread flower loss, resulting in fewer fruits.

Another local farmer, Luong Van Han, revealed that his orchard produced only a small fraction of the usual output. Growing durian is a resource-intensive process, requiring trees to mature over five years before they start bearing fruit. This year’s poor harvest has been especially challenging for farmers who rely heavily on these investments.

The local agricultural department reported that only about 30% of the durian orchards prepared for the dry season in Cai Be managed to produce fruit this year. Harsh weather conditions have been identified as the main reason for the reduced yield.

On the other hand, a farmer who achieved a better harvest credited careful orchard management and prompt adjustments to the adverse weather, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies to mitigate climate-related challenges.