Vietnam's fruit and vegetable export turnover is expected to reach nearly US$1.3 billion in September 2025, according to Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association. This would mark a 36 per cent increase from August (US$951 million) and 41 per cent higher than the same period in 2024 (US$917 million). It represents the highest monthly export value ever recorded for the sector.
For the first nine months of 2025, exports are estimated at over US$6.11 billion, up 8.3 per cent compared to 2024. Nguyen noted that if current momentum continues, the industry could close 2025 with turnover of US$8 billion, surpassing earlier forecasts.
Durian exports have been central to this growth. After early setbacks in 2025, when several shipments were returned for failing to meet China's import conditions, exporters adjusted processes to meet stricter inspections for Auramine O and cadmium. Shipments resumed, leading to a strong recovery from June onward.
In the first three months of 2025, monthly durian export turnover remained below US$100 million. In April, exports rose slightly above this level, then reached US$204 million in May. Since June, volumes have increased sharply. By the end of August, durian exports reached US$1.7 billion, with China accounting for nearly 90 per cent of total shipments.
"Durian exports are estimated to reach US$800-900 million this September, the highest in history," Nguyen forecasted. He added that shipments to China are now moving more smoothly than earlier in the year. September coincides with the peak harvest season in the Central Highlands, where exports last year totaled US$650 million.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development confirmed that durian exports have improved considerably, particularly for frozen products. Domestic prices have also strengthened. In the Central Highlands, Southeast, and Southwest regions, high-quality RI6 durians are currently purchased at VND52,000-65,000 per kg (about US$2.10-2.60), while high-quality Thai durians fetch VND72,000-90,000 per kg (about US$2.90-3.60).
In early August, the ministry issued Decision 3015 on the "Food Safety Control Process for Fresh Durian Exports." This is the first dedicated control mechanism for a Vietnamese fruit, covering production from cultivation to export.
Source: Vietnamnet