New regulations and closely checked from markets, causing durian exports to decrease by 80%, dragging vegetable turnover in the first two months of the year to be 677 million USD.
Vietnam’s vegetable export is facing a difficult period when the turnover drops sharply in the first two months of the year. According to the Vietnam Vegetable Association, the total export value is estimated at US $ 677 million, down 17% compared to the same period last year. In particular, durian, the main fruit, accounting for nearly half of the export value of the whole industry, has decreased seriously. By mid -February, durian exports only reached 3,500 tons, down 80% over the same period in 2024.
One of the main reasons for this situation is that import markets tighten the regulations on quarantine and food safety. China, the largest consumption market, has applied a policy of checking 100% of durian shipments imported from Vietnam. At the same time, from January 10, the country requires the shipments to have a test certificate proving that it does not contain y yellow, a compound at risk of cancer. This makes the customs clear, increasing the risk of goods damage, forcing many businesses to turn their heads to bring goods to domestic consumption.
Mr. Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of Vietnam Vegetable Association, said that 100% of the shipment and request for gold quality inspection of durian exports to China were delayed, many businesses temporarily suspended To prepare adequate procedures.
Not only China, other markets also increase technical barriers with Vietnamese durian. Taiwan extended the inspection order of each shipment of durian imported until April 30, after discovering a number of non -standard shipments in August last year. In Europe, the EU Alliance also raised the test rate from 10% to 20% due to the detection of plant protection drug residues in excess of the permitted level.
In addition to technical factors, export activities are also affected by the long -lasting Tet holiday. The market suspension of transactions during this time caused many shipments to congestion, affecting the supply chain.
Facing these difficulties, Vietnamese export enterprises are forced to adapt. Many companies have actively reduced the amount of exports in January to complete the procedures to meet new requirements. Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tung, CEO Vina T&T, said the company is completing the necessary conditions and expected to export durian to China back in late February.
In order to restore exports, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has provided measures to tighten quality control, ensuring to meet the plant quarantine requirements of imported countries. In addition, the proactive supervision, warning and strict handling of violations has also been promoted to improve the reputation of Vietnam’s agricultural products. In addition, authorities are also actively negotiating to remove technical barriers, expand consumption markets, and ensure sustainable development for vegetable export industry.
