AsemconnectVietnam - In May 2025, fruit and vegetable export turnover was estimated at USD496 million, a 35.5% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, marking the fifth consecutive month of decline.

In the first five months of 2025, total exports reached USD2.1 billion, down 17.8% year-on-year. Despite being in the peak harvest season, prices for many fruits have plummeted due to export constraints:
• Taiwanese mangoes: VND1,000–3,000/kg
• An Phu water apples: VND3,000–5,000/kg
• Thai jackfruit: VND2,000–3,000/kg
• Durian: VND30,000–40,000/kg
Durian, once a key export, saw exports slump 74% YoY to USD130 million in the first four months of 2025.
Fruit Exports Hit by Tighter Import Rules
Vietnam’s fruit and nut exports fell by 23% YoY to USD1 billion in the first four months of 2025, with six of the top eight fruits experiencing a sharp downturn. The steepest decline was seen in durian, which fell by 61% to USD183 million, followed by watermelon (–52% to USD33 million) and jackfruit (–20% to USD98 million). Exports of banana and dragon fruit also slipped.
The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association attributed the decline to stricter import regulations from major markets such as China, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Thailand. For instance, China, Vietnam’s top buyer, now requires 100% testing of durian shipments for cadmium and carcinogenic residues, increasing costs and delaying customs clearance.
As a result, exporters are hesitant to sign new contracts, particularly for jackfruit, which also faces restrictions on chemical use. Dragon fruit exports have been affected as China moves toward greater self-sufficiency, purchasing primarily during Vietnam’s off-season.
Domestic prices have plunged:
• Off-season durian: VND40,000–80,000/kg, down 50% YoY
• Jackfruit: VND4,000–10,000/kg, the lowest ever
Farmers in key growing regions have struggled, especially those who expanded production without adhering to government guidance.
Cai Mon Durian Among Southeast Asia’s Best Fruits
Cai Mon durian from Ben Tre Province was named one of the top 26 fruits in Southeast Asia by readers of TasteAtlas, ranking 21st. Valued for its sweet, creamy flavor and thick flesh, it has few seeds and is available in Monthong and Ri6 varieties. The fruit is typically harvested between June and September and is widely available across Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta during this period.
TasteAtlas also recognized Vietnamese coconut (from Ben Tre) and mangosteen among Southeast Asia's top fruits. The rankings are based on audience reviews, weighted by user expertise, and aim to promote traditional foods and culinary experiences.
Vietnamese Mangosteen in High Demand Despite Higher Prices
Despite being 50% more expensive than Thai imports, Vietnamese mangosteen remains in strong demand due to its superior sweetness and fragrance. In Ho Chi Minh City, top-quality local fruit is sold at VND120,000/kg, while Thai mangosteen is priced at VND90,000–100,000/kg.
The local harvest has been delayed, and yields have dropped by 40–70%, causing supply shortages and pushing up prices. Farmers in Binh Duong and Dong Nai report that most orchards are still unripe, with harvest expected to begin in two weeks.
Government Response and Policy Shift
At a recent meeting, Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy emphasized the urgent need to reassess cultivation areas, prevent misuse of forest land, and improve planning to ensure sustainable and safe production.
The ministry plans to:
• Tighten regulations on farms, packing houses, and testing labs
• Standardize technical processes from production to export
• Promote deep processing to add value
• Reduce reliance on fresh fruit exports
• Diversify export markets to minimize risk from shifting foreign policies
T.Huong
Source: Vitic