According to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), a sharp drop in durian exports has caused Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export turnover to decline for the third consecutive month in early 2025.
Export Performance Overview
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In March 2025, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports were estimated at USD 421 million, up over 34% compared to February.
However, compared with March 2024, export turnover fell by 10.5%, marking the third straight month of decline.
Mr. Đặng Phúc Nguyên, General Secretary of Vinafruit, warned that if the downward trend continues, Vietnam’s total fruit and vegetable export value in 2025 may fall below 2024 levels.
The main reason behind the slowdown is the export challenges faced by durian, Vietnam’s leading export fruit.
Tightened Chinese Regulations Impact Durian Exports
Since early 2025, China has required all imported durian shipments to include laboratory test results for cadmium residue and auramine O (a yellow dye) from China-accredited laboratories.
This regulation applies to all exporting countries, not just Vietnam, and has made the export process more complex, causing longer customs clearance times.
Mr. Nguyễn Thanh Bình, Chairman of Vinafruit, explained that apart from seasonal factors — durian is currently in its off-season (November to March) — China’s stricter testing requirements have led many exporters to temporarily suspend shipments.
He emphasized that not all Vietnamese durian shipments fail to meet standards, but the new testing policy has caused hesitation among exporters.
Export and Import Statistics
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March 2025 export turnover: nearly USD 421 million, up 34% month-on-month but down 10% year-on-year.
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Total Q1 2025 exports: approximately USD 1.1 billion, down 13% compared to the same period in 2024.
The decline is primarily attributed to durian (both fresh and frozen), which continues to face export difficulties.
In contrast, fruit and vegetable imports reached USD 172 million in March, up 4.2% month-on-month and 6.5% year-on-year.
Total imports in Q1 2025 were estimated at USD 578 million, up 17% compared with Q1 2024.
Trade Balance Remains Positive
Despite declining exports, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable sector maintained a trade surplus:
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March 2025: surplus of USD 249 million.
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Q1 2025: cumulative surplus of USD 522 million.
This demonstrates that, despite external pressures, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable industry remains competitive in global markets.
Durian Still the Key Export Driver
In 2024, durian exports reached USD 3.4 billion, accounting for nearly 50% of the total fruit and vegetable export turnover (USD 7.15 billion).
If quality testing and compliance challenges are resolved, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports could surpass USD 8 billion in 2025.