In the first four months of 2024, Vietnam has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the top banana exporter to China, surpassing the Philippines for the first time. According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, Vietnam exported nearly 355,000 tons of bananas to China during this period, reflecting a notable 22% increase compared to the same period last year.
Vietnam’s banana exports now account for 48.8% of all bananas imported into China, a figure that is 2.4 times higher than the Philippines’ share. This marks a historic moment as Vietnam overtakes the Philippines, traditionally a dominant player in the banana export market, to become China’s leading supplier of bananas.
The Philippines, known as the second largest banana-growing nation in the world after Ecuador, has faced challenges that have contributed to Vietnam’s rise. The Philippines’ banana production has been adversely affected by climate change, leading to reduced output and quality. Additionally, the cost of shipping from the Philippines to China has surged this year, making Filipino bananas approximately 33% more expensive than those from Vietnam.
Vietnam’s competitive pricing, consistent quality, and strategic proximity to China have played a crucial role in its success in the Chinese market. As the global demand for bananas continues to grow, Vietnam’s position as a key exporter to China is likely to strengthen further in the coming months.
