Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports to the European Union are gaining momentum, with turnover in the first four months of 2025 reaching USD 132 million, a 33% year-on-year increase, according to Customs data mentioned in a VN Express article.
Mangoes topped the export list with USD 27.6 million, up 54%, followed by pistachios at USD 17 million (up 90%). Pineapple exports tripled to USD 11 million, while coconut shipments rose 41% to USD 10 million. The Netherlands remains the largest EU importer, accounting for nearly 28% of the total value.
According to Mr. Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, the growth is driven by the recovery of post-pandemic demand in Europe, combined with reduced local fruit production due to adverse weather conditions. The Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has also enhanced competitiveness by lowering tariffs.
Poland, Spain, Germany, and France all recorded notable import growth, signalling wider EU acceptance of Vietnamese produce.
As noted by the Vietnam SPS Office, the EU's preference for organic, certified products aligns well with Vietnam's strengths in tropical fruit cultivation. However, exporters face stringent EU standards, particularly on pesticide residues and SPS/TBT compliance.
To address this, companies and testing centres are collaborating more closely with growers to ensure quality from farm to packaging. "Quality control is carried out throughout the season, so fruits are increasingly meeting the strict standards of the EU market," said Bui Xuan Hoang Henry, General Director of Hoan Vu Testing Centre.
Source: VNExpress