Durians rank first in Vietnam's vegetable and fruit exports. (photo: VOV)

Durians, bananas, and dragon fruits were major contributors to the growth of the vegetable and fruit industry this year. Durians ranked first in exports, earning nearly 2.1 billion USD by the end of October, an increase of more than 600%. Jackfruit earned 168.6 million USD, an increase of 35%, and mangoes 154 million USD, an increase of 41%.

Total export turnover in 11 months reached 5.2 billion USD, up 70%. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien said: “Export growth has speeded up since the beginning of the third quarter. The Ministry has focused on solutions and flexibly managed trade promotion and arising problems to achieve this year's growth target.”

China continues to be the top importer of Vietnam's vegetables and fruit, accounting for 66%, followed by the US, South Korea, and Japan. Deputy Minister Tien said Vietnam and China will sign a protocol to switch exports of coconut products, frozen fruits, and watermelons from traditional method to protocol method.

Vietnam's pomelos sold in the US (photo: VOV-Washington)

“Obstacles have been resolved. Businesses, localities, and associations will pay more attention to the quality of material areas, origin traceability, planting area codes, and packaging facilities. The market has favorable conditions, so we should take advantage of harvesting and processing to properly implement the protocol signed between Vietnam and China,” said Mr. Tien.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has issued incentive policies for investors in the deep processing sector, which should reduce post-harvest losses and increase added values. In addition to trying to meet quality standards, the sector is trying to expand markets for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables, especially high-end markets.