Dragon fruit has overtaken durian as Vietnam's leading export fruit for January, as reported by Vietnam Customs. Dragon fruit exports increased by 35% from December, reaching $58 million.
In contrast, durian exports fell by 73% year-on-year to $31 million, primarily due to an 83% decrease in shipments to China, its largest market. This decline is attributed to China's new regulations, which have intensified inspections to mitigate potential carcinogenic risks, according to Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association.
These regulations have resulted in delayed shipments, compelling businesses to sell durians at reduced prices domestically. In addition to China, durian exports face hurdles in other regions. The U.S. has prohibited seven pesticide active ingredients and mandates a planting area and packaging code from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Meanwhile, Europe has doubled its pesticide residue testing rate from 10% to 20% for various fruits.
Due to these increasing barriers, durian exports are anticipated to encounter challenges in the first quarter. In some southern provinces, the price of Vietnam's Ri6 durian variety has decreased by about 27% within a week.
Despite these challenges, durian achieved a record export value of $3.3 billion last year, surpassing rice, traditionally Vietnam's top export category.
Source: VNExpress
