HCMC – Vietnam’s durian exports could reach US$5 billion this year if issues related to testing, traceability, and quality control are addressed, according to industry experts.

Exports of frozen and processed durian have risen sharply despite difficulties with fresh durian shipments. In the first quarter, Vietnam exported about 8,700 tons of frozen durian worth more than US$31 million, up over 60% from a year earlier, reported the Government news website (baochinhphu.vn). Experts said the growth of processed durian exports helps reduce reliance on the Chinese market and extends the product’s shelf life. Demand is also increasing in new markets such as the United States, Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment said China has approved 829 growing area codes and 131 packaging facilities for Vietnamese durian. The ministry is working to expand planting areas and certify more testing laboratories to ease pressure on the current system. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Hoang Trung said testing agencies need to improve accuracy and turnaround times to make use of export opportunities. The ministry has directed its Quality, Processing and Market Development Department to coordinate with local authorities and businesses to ensure timely sample testing and avoid congestion. Vietnam’s agriculture sector is also accelerating a shift toward green production to reduce emissions and support sustainable export growth in line with major markets’ import requirements.