The Devastating Plummet of Plum Prices to a Mere 2,000 VND per kg: A Bitter Blow for Farmers.

Vietnam’s Mekong Delta farmers, particularly in Vinh Long and Tra Vinh, have been facing a significant drop in mandarin orange prices, resulting in substantial losses.

Speaking to VTC News, Phan Van Thoai, a mandarin orange farmer in Tra On, Vinh Long, shared that he invested approximately 120 million VND per hectare of land. At its peak, he harvested 10 tons of mandarins, selling them for around 20,000 VND per kg. However, in recent years, prices have continuously dropped to a meager 1,000 – 2,000 VND per kg, causing consecutive losses.

“I invested about 120 million VND per hectare of mandarin oranges, and with good care, I harvested 10 tons. But with the current prices of 1,000 – 2,000 VND per kg, it’s like losing 100 million VND instantly,” he said.

Similarly, Ho Van Hai from Cau Ke, Tra Vinh, is facing a dire situation. Mr. Hai invested 600 million VND in his one-hectare mandarin orange farm in the first year. To break even, the mandarin orange price needs to be above 10,000 VND per kg. However, the current price has dropped to 2,000 VND per kg, and traders are only buying in small quantities.

“From the beginning of the season, mandarin orange prices have dropped to 3,000 – 5,000 VND per kg. Now, the best quality mandarins are only at 2,000 VND per kg, and traders are buying very slowly,” he said.

According to Mr. Hai, the main reason for the price drop is the rapid increase in mandarin orange-growing areas in recent years, leading to oversupply. The yield in Tra On alone has increased from 100-200 thousand tons/year to 500 thousand tons/year.

“Mandarin oranges are mainly consumed domestically, but the market is limited, leading to a glut,” he said sadly.

Additionally, mandarin orange consumption is concentrated in Hanoi and the North, while the Central and Northern regions are also in their harvest season for oranges, tangerines, and other citrus fruits, further driving down prices.

According to Mr. Nguyen Van Tam, Head of the Agriculture and Rural Development Division of Tra On District, the current mandarin orange prices range from 3,000 – 5,000 VND per kg for farmers with less than 10 hectares of land. Some mandarin oranges from enterprises that are not properly cared for are sold at 1,000-2,000 VND per kg due to their poor quality.

The rapid expansion of mandarin orange-growing areas, coupled with limited consumption, highlights the need for specific planning and direction for the mandarin orange industry. Enhancing domestic consumption, expanding export markets, and improving product quality are essential solutions to stabilize prices and support farmers.