Vietnam's lychee exports have reached record levels this year, generating US$80 million in the first seven months, more than triple the value of the same period in 2024.
Customs data show that July alone accounted for nearly US$35 million, a 20-fold increase compared to last year. China remained the largest importer, purchasing 71 per cent of total exports, valued at US$57 million, almost four times higher than the 2024 figure.
Papua New Guinea emerged as the second-largest buyer, importing US$6 million worth of lychees, a 21-fold rise year-on-year. Other premium markets, including the U.S., EU, Australia, and the UK, also recorded growth ranging from 38 per cent to over 280 per cent.
At the farm gate, prices ranged between US$0.30 and US$0.80 per kilogram, while selected packaged batches fetched US$0.94 to US$1.13. At peak points of the season, some reached US$1.50. In international markets, lychees sold for US$7.52 to US$11.30 per kilogram.
The increase in exports has been supported by sufficient supply, competitive pricing, and stronger demand abroad. More growers are complying with VietGAP and GlobalGAP standards, which have facilitated access to high-barrier destinations such as the U.S., Japan, and the EU.
"The quality of lychees has been improving thanks to modern preservation technology, which extends freshness," said Secretary-General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), Đặng Phúc Nguyên.
Enterprises are also expanding full supply chains from orchards to retail channels to maintain quality and improve efficiency.
A development this season has been the introduction of fresh Vietnamese lychees into Costco stores, the largest retailer in North America, with more than 635 outlets across the U.S. and Canada. This is the first time Vietnamese lychees have entered this distribution channel.
The Vietnam Trade Office in San Francisco confirmed it will continue supporting efforts to expand product lines and promote more Vietnamese produce in U.S. markets.
The Plant Production and Protection Department projects Vietnam's lychee output to reach 303,000 tons this year, a 30 per cent increase from 2024. Bắc Giang province is expected to account for 165,000 tons, with Hải Dương remaining the other main producing area.
Source: Viet Nam News
