Vietnam’s durian industry faces major disruption amid lab closures

Thousands of durian containers are stuck in Dak Lak, a province in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, after all chemical residue testing labs used for export certification were suspended at the same time. The sudden halt has caused exports to grind to a stop during the province’s peak harvest season.

Le Anh Trung, chairman of the Dak Lak Durian Association, said an urgent appeal has been sent to the Prime Minister and key ministries, asking for immediate action. Since October 11, the closure of designated laboratories for maintenance has blocked export inspections, leaving nearly 2,000 containers stranded.

With trading frozen, fruit prices have plunged, collection hubs have closed, and many farmers face the risk of their crops spoiling. The association warned that the crisis could harm both local livelihoods and Vietnam’s reputation as a reliable durian exporter.

Industry leaders are asking the government to quickly reopen or authorise temporary local labs to resume testing, prioritise Central Highlands producers, and fast-track pending inspections to prevent further losses.

source: dtinews.dantri.com.vn

photo: en.cand.com.vn