The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association said that total exports of fruit and vegetables for the first nine months are estimated at more than $6.1 billion, up 8.3% year-on-year.
September also marked the first month this year that turnover regained growth momentum after a series of steep declines.
The rebound is driven primarily by China, which accounts for about 60% of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports.
In September alone, shipments to this market reached nearly $800 million.
Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the association, said purchasing power surged thanks to National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival, when demand for durian used in mooncake fillings spiked.
“Compared to other exporting countries, Vietnam’s durian prices are currently the cheapest and most competitive, in line with Chinese consumers’ preference for reasonably priced products,” he said.
Nguyen said October is likely to mark the peak of the durian boom as the main season winds down, while Vietnam will still have off-season supply in November and December.
During this period, most competitors are nearly out of stock, giving Vietnamese produce an edge and supporting high prices.
Beyond durian, many other fruits also benefit as winter begins, a period when harvesting becomes difficult in many countries.
Vietnam’s favorable climate and direct road, rail, and seaport links to China help cut costs and transit times.
