Produce exports rise 27% in Q1

Exports totaled $433 million in March, up 33% from February and 4% year-on-year, reported the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), citing customs data.

Demand from China, the largest market for Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports, rose 50% year-on-year.

Meanwhile, Thailand and Germany imported 120% more fruit and vegetables from Vietnam than the same period last year.

Durian, dragon fruit and longan contributed the most to exports.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, Vinafruit’s general secretary, said vegetable and fruit exports will continue to thrive as demand from China and ASEAN countries usually increases following the Lunar New Year holiday.

Vietnam will also have an ample supply following the second quarter’s harvest season for most tropical fruits, he said.

Vegetables and fruit from the U.S. and EU are losing their competitiveness due to longer shipping times and higher costs, he noted, adding that Vietnam can now capitalize on the opportunity to boost its market share in Asia.

This year, Vietnam’s vegetable and fruit exports are expected to reach $6-6.5 billion thanks to the high demand from China, Thailand, Germany and Japan.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development speculated that the global market for fruit and vegetables will grow to $392 billion by 2025.

With its abundant supply, Vietnam can secure a good spot in the international supply chain, according to the ministry.