Nearly 2,000 containers of durians are stranded after all chemical residue testing laboratories for export were simultaneously suspended, disrupting trade across Dak Lak's durian sector.
Le Anh Trung, chairman of the Dak Lak Durian Association, said on October 24 that an urgent petition had been sent to the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and the Dak Lak People's Committee, requesting immediate action to resolve the export disruption.
Since October 11, all designated testing facilities have suspended operations for system maintenance, halting export inspections and certifications. The closure coincides with the province's 20- to 30-day peak harvest season, causing a backlog of fruit at warehouses, along transport routes, and near border checkpoints.
Many companies have stopped purchasing durians, prices have dropped, and farmers face the risk of losing fruit as ripening continues in the orchards. Increased storage, transport, and refrigeration costs have placed further pressure on producers and exporters.
"This situation not only affects thousands of farmers but could also damage the reputation of Vietnam's durian industry and national image," the association warned.
The Dak Lak Durian Association called on authorities to urgently resume testing operations, prioritise samples from the Central Highlands, expedite end-of-season checks, and temporarily authorise qualified local laboratories to maintain export flow and assist affected farmers and companies.
Dak Lak, one of Vietnam's leading durian-producing provinces, has seen trading activity stall in recent days. Prices continue to decline, collection points have closed, and transactions remain suspended, raising concerns over export market stability and industry credibility.
Source: DTI News
