The Plant Protection Department of Vietnam has announced that durian exports to China do not contain excessive levels of cadmium, following comprehensive tests on soil, water, fertilizers, growth stimulants, and durian treatment chemicals. This statement comes in response to previous warnings from China regarding cadmium contamination in Vietnamese durian shipments. The Department conducted inspections and sample testing in areas flagged by Chinese authorities, finding no violations of cadmium content standards.
Huynh Tan Dat, the director of the Plant Protection Department, confirmed the findings in a statement to Tien Phong newspaper, indicating that a report is being prepared for the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Plans are underway for a meeting with Chinese officials and a press conference to discuss the findings. This development follows China's report of excessive cadmium residues in 30 Vietnamese durian shipments, prompting urgent reviews by Vietnamese exporters and growers.
Vietnam, with 708 registered durian growing areas and 168 packaging facilities, prioritizes compliance with food safety regulations amidst rising durian export earnings, notably to China, which constitutes 90% of Vietnam's durian export market. In the first quarter of this year, Vietnam exported nearly 57,000 tons of fresh durian, generating US$253 million, marking significant increases in volume and value compared to the previous year.
Source: english.vov.vn