In April, China's importation of Vietnamese durian reached $204 million, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Over the first four months, the total value of durian imports from Vietnam by China stood at $432 million, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 168%, as reported by the Vietnam Fruits & Vegetables Association (Vinafruit). Consequently, China accounted for 92% of Vietnam's total durian exports during this period, an increase from the previous year. The average export price for Vietnamese durian was noted at $4,207 per ton in the initial months of the year, though a slight decrease in price was observed last month.
Dang Phuc Nguyen, Vinafruit's general secretary, highlighted the current durian season in Vietnam, which has led to an increase in supply. Additionally, the cost of transportation to China is low, and competition from Thai exporters has diminished due to a reduction in their durian production caused by drought and heatwaves. This situation has prompted Thai exporters to express concerns over the impact of high temperatures on durian quality.
Moreover, China has recently approved a greater number of Vietnamese farms for export, further boosting supply. Despite challenges in quality control due to the use of pesticides on some farms, efforts are underway to enhance the quality and export viability of Vietnamese durian. Nguyen also noted the potential for Vietnam's durian exports to China to reach up to $3 billion this year, underscoring the competitive advantage Vietnam holds in the Chinese market.
Source: e.vnexpress.net