Following the implementation of more stringent inspection standards by China, including the requirement for Auramine O testing, Vietnamese durian exporters have faced challenges. Anh Thu Dak Lak Co., Ltd. has had to recall 10 containers, totaling 170 tons of durians, due to failure to meet these new standards. The General Director, Doan Van Ven, noted that half of these containers were returned by Chinese customs for lacking the required Auramine O certification, while the remainder was redirected domestically.
Ven remarked, "We will sell at lower prices to minimize losses, accepting a deficit of over VND10 billion (US$394,790)." He further explained the predicament of the containers being stalled at the border for over 10 days, risking spoilage due to delays in customs clearance and transportation.
The durian export sector at large is grappling with these new inspection regulations, as stated by Ngo Tuong Vy, General Director of Chanh Thu Co., Ltd. Both companies have paused their exports to China, awaiting more explicit guidelines.
The introduction of Auramine O testing by China came after the detection of the chemical in Thai durian shipments. This has significantly reduced the daily clearance of durian shipments at the Huu Nghi border gate, as reported by Phung Van Ba, Deputy Head of the Sub-department of Customs. Ba emphasized the importance of businesses updating themselves on the new requirements to avoid shipment rejections.
In response to violations cited by China, Vietnam's Plant Protection Department has called for enhanced monitoring and inspection efforts to ensure compliance with phytosanitary and food safety standards. With durian exports reaching $3.3 billion in 2024, Vietnam aims to increase this figure to $3.5 billion by 2025, targeting a total fruit and vegetable export value of $10 billion in the near future.
Source: VNExpress