China increases purchases of Vietnamese durian by one and a half times

The amount of Vietnamese durian exported to the Chinese market increased by one and a half times by the end of November 2024.

According to data from China Customs, in the first 11 months of last year, the amount of durian imported from Vietnam reached nearly 721,000 tons, an increase of 50% compared to the same period in 2023. Meanwhile, Thai durian exports to China decreased by 13%, to over 796,000 tons.

With this growth momentum, Vietnam is gradually narrowing the gap with Thailand and has the potential to take the lead in durian exports to the world's second largest economy by 2025.

According to Mr. Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, Vietnam's geographical location near China helps reduce transportation costs and time. The long harvest season that does not overlap with Thailand is an advantage, ensuring a continuous supply. If not affected by climate change, according to him, Vietnam could even surpass Thailand in export output.

Harvesting off-season durian in Cai Lay town, Tien Giang. Photo: Hoang Nam

Although output increased sharply, the export price of Vietnamese durian only reached nearly 4,000 USD per ton, lower than Thailand's 5,000 USD. This brought Vietnam's export turnover to nearly 2.9 billion USD, up 38% over the same period, but still lower than Thailand's (3.9 billion USD, down 12.5%).

Despite the popularity of the neighboring market, Mr. Nguyen advised Vietnamese farmers and businesses to strictly comply with the regulations in the Protocol with China. Stable quality and building a strong brand are decisive factors in competing with Thai products and those from other countries.

In addition to Vietnam, China has also increased its purchases of this agricultural product from the Philippines. As of the end of November 2024, the import turnover from this country reached more than 13 million USD, an increase of 3.5 times compared to the previous year.

Last year, the total export turnover of Vietnamese durian to markets reached 3.3 billion USD, an increase of more than 1 billion USD compared to 2023. China is the market that accounts for 90% of the market share.

Durian exports are forecast to continue to increase this year, to 3.5 billion USD, contributing to the fruit and vegetable export turnover reaching the target of 8 billion USD.

Source