As of May 1, Ri6 durian prices in Vietnam's Mekong Delta stood at approximately $0.98 per kilogram at farms, reflecting a drop of $0.20 to $0.59 per kilogram compared to the previous month. However, the primary concern for growers is not the price decline but the lack of traders willing to buy the fruit.
In response, farmers in Phong Dien District (Can Tho City) and Chau Thanh A District (Hau Giang Province) have begun selling durians directly along National Highway 61C, which connects Can Tho and Vi Thanh. Roadside sales have yielded higher returns, with Ri6 durians selling for $1.17 to $2.34 per kilogram, depending on quality. According to Nguyen Van Muoi, a farmer in Phong Dien, the combination of oversupply and a shortage of buyers has forced families to sell their harvests roadside. This trend is also seen in other Mekong Delta provinces such as Can Tho and Vinh Long.
Nguyen Thi Giang, Deputy Director of Hau Giang Province's Department of Agriculture and Environment, pointed out challenges in the durian market, including quality control, pricing instability, and waning demand. As production areas expand, supply has increased while importers have raised quality standards. Authorities are advising farmers to comply with international food safety regulations to maintain market access and are encouraging investment in agricultural technology to enhance fruit quality.
Enterprises are urged to invest in durian processing to add value, while cooperatives are encouraged to foster partnerships between farmers and businesses to stabilize prices and improve market access. Both producers and traders are advised to focus on quality, diversify durian products, and explore new export opportunities.
Source: Saigon News
