Record low prices for Chinese strawberries in Vietnam

Since mid-February large shipments from China have entered Vietnam, with wholesale prices at Hoc Mon Market in HCMC and Lao Cai Province in the far north hovering around VND380,000-400,000 for a seven-kilogram box. The low cost means the fruit is widely available in traditional markets across HCMC and retail outlets in Hanoi.

Loan, a vendor at Xom Moi Market in HCMC, says this year’s Chinese strawberries are not only cheaper but also have a better appearance than before. "I buy two to three batches a day, and they sell out quickly. Even juice vendors who source from me are ordering more."

Mai Hoa, a seller at Pham Van Hai Market in HCMC, notes that Chinese strawberries are up to VND30,000 cheaper per kilogram than their Da Lat counterparts. "Da Lat strawberries now cost VND120,000 per kilogram—the lowest in years."

Importers say China has increased strawberry production to offer both affordable and premium varieties. According to Produce Report, China is the world’s largest strawberry producer.In recent years large agricultural firms have invested in smart greenhouse technology to improve output and quality.

Boxes of strawberries. Photo from Pexels

Thanh, a fruit importer in HCMC, says Chinese strawberries dominate the market due to their uniform size, steady supply and longer shelf life.

"Chinese strawberries are imported in bulk, while Da Lat farmers cultivate on a much smaller scale and the quality is less consistent. Chinese strawberries wholesale for VND55,000-62,000 while Da Lat varieties cost VND80,000. They cost from a fourth to a sixth of the prices of imports from Korea and Japan."

Nguyen Binh Phuong, deputy director of Thu Duc wholesale market’s agricultural division, says Chinese strawberries enter Vietnam legally through official trade agreements and meet all inspection requirements.
"Chinese strawberries are now outselling Vietnamese ones due to their lower price and abundant supply."

According to Vietnamese customs data, the country imported over US$88 million worth of fruits and vegetables from China in January 2025, matching last year's figure. China remains Vietnam’s top fruit supplier, accounting for 41% of total fruit imports.