On the evening of August 12, the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA), hosted a ceremony to welcome the first official import of California peaches and nectarines into Vietnam.
Ms. Susan Burns, US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, shared that last July, Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development granted permission for the import of American peaches and nectarines, marking a successful culmination of years of efforts between the two countries. For the first time, Vietnamese consumers will have the opportunity to taste the delicious and juicy peaches and nectarines straight from the US.
Known as the “specialty of American summer,” these fruits are renowned for their exquisite taste and juiciness.
According to Ms. Burns, Vietnam is the 9th largest agricultural market for the US, while the US is the 2nd largest export market for Vietnam’s agricultural products. The total agricultural trade between the two countries in 2023 surpassed $5.5 billion.
Ms. Susan Burns addressing the event
Speaking to the media at the event, Ms. Caroline Stringer, Commercial Director of the California Fresh Fruit Association, revealed that California is currently the only state in the US permitted to export peaches and nectarines to Vietnam. Vietnam is the 41st market for these fruits.
“About 5-6 years ago, we recognized the potential of the Vietnamese market, as consumers here have a great appreciation for high-quality fruits. We have been working towards opening up this market, and as a result, exports of American fruits and vegetables to Vietnam have been growing strongly. We look forward to bringing fresh American plums to Vietnam in the future,” expressed Ms. Stringer.
The first batch of American peaches and nectarines imported into Vietnam through official channels
When asked about the competitiveness of American peaches and nectarines in the Vietnamese market, where similar fruits are imported from other countries at lower prices, Ms. Stringer emphasized that consumers would notice a difference.
Peaches and nectarines, both members of the stone fruit family, have a similar external appearance, mainly distinguished by their skin – peaches have a soft, fuzzy skin, while nectarines boast a smooth, glossy exterior.
According to the representative of the California Fresh Fruit Association in Vietnam, these fruits are harvested during the summer, from May to September each year. The first batch is expected to hit the Vietnamese market in about a week. This premium fruit product will be transported to Vietnam by air.
