The trend of decreasing durian prices persisted into February, notably impacting the Mekong Delta. Typically, off-season durian yields are low, keeping prices elevated. However, this year, prices have declined by approximately $0.42 to $1.27 per kilogram compared to mid-January.
As of February 12, durian prices remain low across Vietnam for both Thai and Ri6 varieties. Ri6 durian purchased in bulk is priced at around $1.78 to $1.91 per kilogram, while premium quality is priced at approximately $2.75 per kilogram. Thai durian prices range from $2.41 to $2.83 per kilogram, with premium varieties reaching $3.18 to $3.40 per kilogram.
The Mekong Delta has experienced a continuous decline in durian prices since the start of the year. This trend is attributed to China's stringent inspection standards, posing challenges for the export sector. Despite the challenges, durian remains a key agricultural export for Vietnam, generating substantial revenue.
Recent market developments have introduced challenges for the durian industry. After a period of price increases in 2024, reaching up to $8.06 per kilogram, prices dropped sharply during the Lunar New Year due to China's increased quality control, particularly concerning yellow O chemical residues.
In Tien Giang, current durian prices range from $1.69 to $3.40 per kilogram, experiencing a decrease of $2.11 to $4.23 per kilogram compared to early January. Export enterprises indicate that the price drop is primarily due to China's stricter inspection standards and decreased post-Lunar New Year demand.
Chinese customs data shows a 9.4% increase in durian imports in 2024, totaling 1.56 million tons valued at nearly $7 billion. Vietnam remains a major supplier, with China importing 736,720 tons, an increase of 49.4% in volume from the previous year.
Vietnam continues as the second-largest durian supplier to China, with durian exports constituting nearly 45% of the country's total fruit and vegetable export turnover in 2024. However, January's fruit and vegetable exports reached $416 million, an 11.3% decrease from December.
Future export turnover is expected to decline further due to low post-Tet demand. February's export turnover is projected at $300-$350 million. Vinafruit highlights potential challenges due to China's enhanced quality controls for yellow O and cadmium residues on durian.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has recognized nine testing laboratories qualified to issue certificates, facilitating Vietnamese durian exports to China. Compliance with new inspection regulations and strengthening purchasing links are advised to enhance product quality.
A ministry representative emphasized compliance with China's Yellow O inspection requirements. Most Vietnamese durian shipments are confirmed to be of high quality, with ongoing efforts to address any issues. Successful compliance could lead to increased durian exports and prices.
Vietnam's durian cultivation spans approximately 169,000 hectares, with a high harvest rate.
Source: Vietnam.VN