In the first 6 months of 2024, fruit and vegetable export turnover reached nearly USD 3.5 billion. Key markets recorded an increase of 10-50% over the same period in 2023. This is also the industry that holds the leading position in exports of agricultural products.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, fruit and vegetable exports in June 2024 are estimated to reach nearly USD 780 million. Accumulated over the first 6 months of 2024, fruit and vegetable exports increased by more than 28% over the same period last year. Among them, durian, dragon fruit, banana, etc. are all fruit products that contribute mainly to export growth in the first half of 2024. Besides, processed products and key markets also recorded received an increase of 10-50% compared to the same period last year.

The main market for Vietnam's vegetables and fruits is still China and other potential markets such as Korea Republic, the United States, Japan, Thailand, etc. Of which, China is still the largest export market for Vietnam fruits and vegetables, estimated at about USD 2.2 billion (an increase of 33% over the same period in 2023). The Korea Republic market ranked second, estimated at USD 180 million, an increase of 57.9% over the same period in 2023. Followed by the United States, with an export value of nearly USD 150 million, an increase of 32.4% over the same period last year.

According to Mr. Phung Duc Tien, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, regarding the export market of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables, Vietnam currently officially exports more than a dozen types of fruits to the Chinese market, including: watermelon, mangosteen, durian, fresh banana, sweet potato, dragon fruit, rambutan, mango, lychee, longan, jackfruit. Notably, Vietnam and China recently initialed the conclusion of negotiations on the protocol regarding phytosanitary requirements for the export of fresh coconuts from Vietnam to China, opening up export prospects for Vietnam coconuts. It is expected that this year, Vietnam and China will sign a new Protocol on the export of frozen durian, passion fruit and chili, continuing to expand agricultural export opportunities to China.

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association also forecasts that fruit and vegetable export turnover this year could reach USD 7-7.5 billion, if frozen durian or fresh coconut products participate under Vietnam's current relationship with China. Along with abundant supply that can meet large market demand, export businesses expect to be able to set a new record this year.

Durian exports are increasing very strongly. In May, the export turnover of this fruit reached USD 450 million, an increase of 107% over the previous month and an increase of 34% over the same month last year. In June 2024, durian exports are estimated to reach USD 600 million. Therefore, in just 2 months, durian exports have brought in USD 1.05 billion.

Kylie Nguyen