The U.S. stone fruit industry reached a major milestone in 2024 with the successful export of California peaches and nectarines to Vietnam for the first time, following years of technical work, bilateral cooperation, and trade negotiations. The achievement opens a promising new market for U.S. stone fruit producers and reflects growing consumer demand in Southeast Asia for high-quality temperate fruits.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), working alongside Vietnam's Plant Protection Department (PPD), played a central role in securing market access through a rigorous pest risk assessment and the development of science-based import protocols.
The process involved identifying potential plant pests, agreeing on appropriate mitigation measures, and finalizing the import framework in compliance with international phytosanitary standards. These steps culminated in August 2024 with the arrival of the first commercial shipment of California peaches and nectarines in Hanoi.
Vietnamese importer Klever Fruit partnered with U.S. stakeholders to facilitate the initial shipment. APHIS staff in Hanoi coordinated with Vietnamese inspectors to ensure smooth clearance and quality control upon arrival. The fruit passed inspection and was distributed to retail locations and tasting events across the city.
To mark the occasion, Klever Fruit hosted a promotional event featuring the California stone fruit, highlighting its quality and appeal to Vietnamese consumers. Attendees included trade officials, retail partners, and representatives from the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA), which supported the market access efforts from the outset.
Vietnam presents significant opportunities for California's stone fruit growers. With a rising middle class and an established preference for sweet, premium fruit, the country aligns well with U.S. production strengths, particularly in peaches and nectarines. California remains the largest stone fruit-producing state in the U.S., with a long-standing reputation for fruit quality and safety.
The addition of Vietnam as an export market follows similar successes in countries such as Australia and South Korea and builds on the growing momentum for U.S. stone fruit in Asia. Market development is critical for growers facing challenges such as rising input costs, water availability, and shifting domestic demand.
Looking ahead, continued collaboration between U.S. producers, APHIS, and Vietnamese authorities will focus on maintaining access and ensuring compliance with import requirements. Industry groups like CFFA are also working to promote awareness and build demand among consumers and distributors throughout Vietnam.
The introduction of California stone fruit into Vietnam is not just a new export channel—it is a strategic step in diversifying markets and strengthening the global position of U.S. fruit producers in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Source: AFSA