Fruit in Vietnam - big potential

Development has been impressive in Vietnam. With a population of 84 million, poverty has been reduced from 58% in 1993 to 15% in 2007, although town versus country inequality has increased. As a recent international player, Vietnam has rapidly become a leader in trade in rice, coffee, cashew, pepper and tea. It joined the WTO in 2007, unveiling a determination to strengthen its presence, especially in the exotic fruits sector where the fragility of the produce requires a degree of experience and a quality strategy. Domestic and regional markets—where demand is excellent—should continue to be supplied with Vietnamese fruits. However, increased competition on the domestic market could lead to awareness of the importance of significant addressing of a quality procedure. In addition, the diversification of rice land for fruit and vegetable growing is a significant source of improvement of incomes. But success will only come if the sector takes energetic steps to supply suitable produce and ensure high quality.