Vietnam’s durian exports have seen remarkable growth in 2024, with a total export value of $919 million in the first five months, reflecting a 74% increase compared to the same period last year, as per customs data. This impressive performance has positioned durian as Vietnam’s leading fruit export, surpassing dragon fruit by 3.5 times.
In May alone, durian exports reached $450 million, more than double the value from April, and a 34% increase year-on-year, according to the General Department of Customs. June’s exports were estimated to hit $600 million, as reported by Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit).
China has emerged as the largest market for Vietnamese durian this year. Vietnam’s ability to harvest durian year-round gives it a significant advantage over Thailand, whose durian production is seasonal. The country’s proximity to China further enhances its competitiveness by reducing transportation costs and shortening shipping times.
However, recent reports of banned substances found in some shipments have raised concerns about the quality of Vietnamese durian in China. Nguyen emphasized the importance of strengthening quality control measures at both orchards and packaging facilities to prevent future incidents and protect the reputation of Vietnamese durian.
The broader fruit and vegetable export sector in Vietnam has also experienced substantial growth. In the first five months of 2024, Vietnam exported over $2.65 billion worth of fruits and vegetables, a 30.9% increase from the previous year. Of this, $1.71 billion was exported to China, marking a 32.94% rise. Exports to other key markets, including South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, have also shown strong growth.
Vinafruit predicts that total fruit and vegetable exports could grow by 15-20%, potentially reaching around $7 billion by the end of the year.
