China's imports of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables up 36%

Vietnam’s total fruit and vegetable exports were worth nearly $5 billion in the period, a 33% increase.

Other countries like the U.S., South Korea, Thailand, and Japan also increased their imports from Vietnam by 35-90%.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said fruits and vegetable exports are growing faster than those of other agricultural items, including rice, one of the key exports.

"Fruit and vegetable exports are surging particularly due to the durian demand from China," Nguyen said.

Last month, during a visit to China by State President and Party General Secretary To Lam, the two countries signed a protocol that allows the exports of frozen durian and fresh coconuts to China.

Frozen durian exports are expected to reach $400-500 million this year. Meanwhile, exports of fresh coconuts could increase by $200-300 million.

Several other markets have also increased imports of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables.

The CEO of a fruit and vegetable exporter said: "Vietnam’s product quality and packaging have recently improved to meet the stringent requirements set by international trade partners."

Fruit and vegetable exports could reach $7 billion this year, driven by strong demand during some holidays later this year.