AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS ARE NO LONGER A "CHEAP" DEAL

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association believes that agricultural product export is no longer a “game” of low prices or easy markets.

According to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, fruit and vegetable export turnover in May 2025 reached only 496 million USD, a sharp decrease of 35.5% compared to the same period last year. This is the 5th consecutive month that this industry has declined. In the context of a volatile global market, increasing competitive pressure and increasingly strict import standards, the Vietnamese fruit and vegetable industry is forced to enter a comprehensive restructuring phase if it does not want to fall behind.

China – the largest export market – recorded a decrease of up to 33%. In contrast, exports to high-end markets such as the US and Japan showed positive signs, increasing by 65% and 22% respectively. The more demanding the market, the greater the room for growth – if businesses meet international standards.

Mr. Dang Phuc Nguyen – General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association said: “Find every way to bring durian back on track with Southeast Asian countries, especially Thailand. We must have solutions to limit violations of banned substances, regain the trust of Chinese consumers”.

Despite the market fluctuations, many businesses still maintain growth momentum thanks to sustainable development strategies. Items such as dragon fruit, jackfruit, mango, etc. still maintain a stable export rate in demanding markets.

Not only exporting fresh fruits according to the season, but now, durian and many other fruits such as bananas, lychees, longans, dragon fruits, etc. are being invested in by businesses for deep processing, creating products with high added value such as making cakes, making juices, dried fruits, etc.

Thanks to focusing on deep processing, some businesses have reduced their dependence on single markets and seasonal risks, maintaining growth momentum as set targets. Along with the efforts of enterprises, the market expansion policy from the state management agency has also been promoted.

Mr. Do Duc Duy – Minister of Agriculture and Environment said: “Expand to other markets such as South America, Africa, Middle East. Prioritize markets with which we have signed free trade agreements”.

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association stated that agricultural product export is no longer a “game” of cheap prices or easy-going markets. As technical barriers become increasingly strict, proactive adaptation from growing areas to processing, logistics and destination markets… is a vital condition for Vietnamese agricultural products to firmly step on the global playing field.