Vietnam’s Fruit and Vegetable Exports Reach Unprecedented High

Durian Dominates Vietnam’s Fruit and Vegetable Sector

According to Dang Phuoc Nguyen, Secretary-General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), customs data reveals a historic milestone in September. The fruit and vegetable industry achieved an all-time high export turnover of nearly $1.3 billion, a 36% increase from August and 41% higher than the same period in 2024.

In the first nine months, cumulative exports reached over $6 billion, an 8.3% rise compared to the previous year.

Durian, the king of fruits, remains the industry’s flagship product. Despite early-year setbacks due to China’s tightened regulations on Cadmium and gold O residues, which led to multiple shipment rejections, Vinafruit estimates that durian exports generated approximately $2.5–2.6 billion in the first nine months, significantly contributing to the total turnover.

This success follows government intervention to establish industry standards and expand international negotiations. Farmers and businesses have also swiftly adapted production processes to meet global quality standards.

Mr. Nguyen predicts a surge in durian exports in the coming months as major growing regions enter peak harvest season, while demand from China, the U.S., and other markets remains high.

Beyond durian, other fruits and vegetables like bananas, coconuts, pineapples, passion fruit, and processed mangoes are experiencing steady growth, diversifying Vietnam’s export portfolio. This reduces reliance on a single product and strengthens Vietnam’s position as a leading exporter of tropical agricultural products.

Expanding Markets, New Records on the Horizon

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports are not only breaking value records but also diversifying their market reach. While China remains the top market, accounting for 58% of exports in the first eight months of 2025, its share is gradually decreasing as other markets accelerate.

Exports to the U.S. rose by 60% to $363 million, Japan by 21%, the Netherlands by 39%, and Malaysia by 67%. This shift demonstrates Vietnamese businesses’ deeper penetration into demanding markets and effective niche market exploitation. Reduced dependence on China’s volatile market enhances the industry’s long-term sustainability.

Mr. Nguyen anticipates a new record in Q4, driven by increased holiday demand. With a projected 10% growth, the sector could reach $8.15 billion, surpassing last year’s performance.

This achievement reflects not only revenue growth but also improved resilience to technical barriers and market fluctuations.

The industry’s 2030 target of $10 billion is achievable, and could even be exceeded, if raw material zones are sufficiently large and synchronized to meet global demand for tropical produce.

Durian is more than a revenue driver; it’s a catalyst propelling Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable sector into a new era of global agricultural prominence.