China's procurement of fruits and vegetables from Vietnam saw a 36% increase in the first eight months of 2024, reaching nearly US$3.1 billion. This growth is part of Vietnam's broader expansion in fruit and vegetable exports, which hit nearly $5 billion during the same period, marking a 33% rise. The surge in exports is attributed to the escalating demand for durians in China, as highlighted by Dang Phuc Nguyen, the general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association. This demand is part of a broader trend that has seen Vietnamese fruit and vegetable exports outpace other agricultural exports, including rice.
A recent bilateral protocol signed during a state visit to China by Vietnam's State President and Party General Secretary To Lam has further bolstered this trade, specifically allowing for the export of frozen durian and fresh coconuts to China. Expectations are set for frozen durian exports to potentially reach $400-500 million, with fresh coconut exports possibly increasing by $200-300 million. The quality and packaging improvements of Vietnamese produce have been pivotal in meeting the stringent standards of international markets, facilitating this growth. Projections suggest that fruit and vegetable exports could ascend to $7 billion by the year's end, propelled by robust demand during upcoming holidays.
Source: VN Express