Vietnam eyes record $4.5B durian exports this year

Vietnam is on track to achieve a record $4.5 billion in durian exports this year, up from nearly $1.1 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a 32% increase compared to the previous year. The peak season for exports, which currently relies heavily on China, is yet to arrive. The Central Highlands region, responsible for a significant portion of annual production, will commence its harvest in August and continue until October.

Monthly shipments have already surpassed $1 billion in the same period last year. Industry stakeholders anticipate revenue exceeding $4 billion, potentially reaching the $4.5 billion target, thus narrowing the gap with Thailand in supplying China's lucrative durian market.

Recent policy changes have bolstered these prospects. China officially acknowledged 18 new Vietnamese testing laboratories on July 31, 2026, elevating the total count to 50. This development comes after exporters faced difficulties earlier in the year due to several laboratories suspending operations temporarily, causing delays in customs clearance for shipments.

Additionally, authorities have expedited the issuance of planting area codes, reducing the processing time from ten days to three days through a fully digital system. The government is also taking steps to streamline the industry by prosecuting officials involved in bribery and abuse of power in managing planting area codes and export procedures, aiming to eliminate administrative obstacles and promote fair competition.

To mitigate dependence on China, Vietnam is venturing into new markets. India recently opened its market to Vietnamese durian, presenting another attractive destination as production continues to rise. Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetables Association, expects shipments to India to generate $50-100 million annually in the initial years as consumers become more familiar with the fruit.

Vietnam's durian exports formally commenced four years ago, following a protocol signed between Vietnam and China in July 2022. Export turnover peaked at $400 million in the final months of that year, skyrocketing to $2.2 billion in 2023. Since then, the industry has consistently broken export records annually, positioning durian as one of the fastest-growing agricultural sectors in Vietnam.

Last year, shipments rose to $3.8 billion, placing durian alongside Vietnam's traditional export commodities like rice, shrimp, rubber, and cashew nuts. While durian's value is primarily generated within Vietnam, minimizing reliance on imported raw materials, the industry remains heavily dependent on China, accounting for approximately 90% of exports.

Experts emphasize the necessity to diversify markets while investing in processed durian products, which are more convenient for transportation, boast a longer shelf life, and attract a wider range of international consumers.