Vietnam has long been a significant player in global agricultural markets, with its fruit and vegetable sector consistently showcasing resilience and growth. In 2024, this industry continued to flourish, bolstered by remarkable achievements in durian exports.

Fruit and Vegetable Production Overview

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable production in 2024 witnessed a positive trajectory, building upon the steady growth observed in recent years. Compared to 2023, the overall production of fruits and vegetables increased by approximately 3.7% [1], driven by favorable climatic conditions and the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies. The total area dedicated to fruit and vegetable cultivation has expanded significantly, with the total cultivation area for durians alone reaching more than 151,000 hectares by 2024, a significant growth from just 71,000 hectares in 2020. [2]

Durian production area in Vietnam from 2019 to 2024

Unit: 1,000 hectares

Source: thanhnien.vn [3]

The Mekong Delta remains the dominant region in fruit and vegetable production, accounting for nearly 60% of the country’s total fruit export revenue[4]. Known for its fertile soil and abundant water resources, this area produces key crops such as mangoes, bananas, and dragon fruit. Meanwhile, the Central Highlands has become a hub for high-value crops like durian, avocado, and coffee, benefiting from its cooler climate and volcanic soil. Northern regions also play a vital role, particularly in the production of litchis and longans.

Durian has emerged as a shining example of Vietnam’s agricultural success. In 2024, durian production reached an impressive 1.43 million tons, reflecting a year-on-year increase of nearly 25%. [5] This growth has been fueled by expanding cultivation areas and improved farming practices. Farmers in the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta have increasingly shifted to durian cultivation due to its high market value and export potential.

Image of Durian harvesting in Vietnam

Source: laodong.vn

Export Situation of Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports in 2024 experienced impressive growth, with total export value estimated to surpass $7.1 million, a remarkable increase from $4.5 billion in 2023. [6] This robust performance underscores the country’s ability to meet rising global demand for high-quality agricultural products. Experts predict that export revenues could exceed $8 billion in 2025 if this growth trajectory continues.

China continues to be Vietnam’s largest export market, accounting for more than 60% of the total export value. Other major markets include the United States, Japan, and the European Union. These countries have demonstrated strong demand for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables due to their quality, competitive pricing, and adherence to international safety standards.

Major fruit and vegetable export market of Vietnam in 2024

100% = 7.1 billion USD

Source: Inforgraphic.vn [7]

Among the wide variety of exported fruits, durian has taken center stage in 2024. The fruit’s export value alone is projected to exceed $3 billion, marking a record-breaking achievement. This success can be attributed to Vietnam’s concerted efforts to meet China’s stringent import requirements, including compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and enhanced traceability systems. Furthermore, the surge in Chinese demand has made durian a strategic export crop, encouraging investments in cultivation and logistics. Other key export items include dragon fruit (435 million USD [8]), bananas (350 million USD[9]), mangoes (more than 308 million USD[10]) as well as processed products such as frozen vegetables and canned fruit.

Durian export turnover from 2020 to 2024

Unit: billion USD

Source: 60shomnay.vn [11]

Opportunities and Challenges

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable sector continues to demonstrate promising growth in 2024, unveiling numerous opportunities for the future. One notable trend is the shift towards safe fruit and vegetable production that adheres to VietGAP and other international standards. This movement towards higher quality and safer products positions Vietnam favorably in the global market and sets a sustainable path for future development. The government’s orientation toward encouraging the production and export of high-quality fruits and vegetables further strengthens this trend, providing incentives for growers and exporters to elevate their practices. Additionally, as export volumes increase, there is a corresponding boost in the cold storage and transportation sectors, underscoring their growth potential in supporting agricultural exports.

The popularity of premium fruits like durian continues to offer lucrative prospects for Vietnamese farmers and exporters. High demand, especially from China, combined with favorable pricing, has spurred investments in cultivation and post-harvest processing. By focusing on enhancing product quality and meeting international export standards, Vietnam can reinforce its status as a prominent exporter of sought-after fruits like durian.

Despite these opportunities, challenges remain. A significant issue is the limited added value of Vietnamese exports, as the industry primarily focuses on raw products with minimal processing and packaging. Enhancing capabilities in high-value processing and packaging is crucial for maximizing profitability and market reach. Climate change also poses ongoing threats, with extreme weather events and natural disasters potentially disrupting production cycles. Moreover, navigating stringent import regulations in key markets requires continuous investment in infrastructure and adherence to rigorous food safety standards, such as China’s phytosanitary requirements.

Lastly, Vietnam faces strong competition from established exporters like Thailand and the Philippines, particularly in markets for durian and bananas. To sustain its competitive advantage, Vietnam must invest in innovation, enhance branding, and adopt effective marketing strategies that differentiate its products on the global stage.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable sector in 2024 has proven to be a dynamic and resilient industry, achieving remarkable growth in both production and exports. The standout success of durian exemplifies the country’s ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities and adapt to evolving market demands. While challenges such as climate change and competition persist, Vietnam’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation positions it well for continued success.

As global demand for fresh and processed agricultural products grows, Vietnam has the potential to further enhance its presence in international markets. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, the country’s fruit and vegetable sector can continue to thrive, with durian leading the way as a symbol of its agricultural excellence.

[1] https://thongtincongthuong.vn/phan-tich-tinh-hinh-cung-cau-va-du-bao-mat-hang-rau-cu-thang-11-va-11-thang-nam-2024/

[2] https://daidoanket.vn/ha-nhiet-con-sot-mo-rong-dien-tich-sau-rieng-10279727.html

[3] https://thanhnien.vn/nhieu-nong-san-bi-ap-luc-tu-sau-rieng-185240801224951922.htm

[4] https://www.fas.usda.gov/data/vietnam-vietnamese-fruit-production-and-exports-confront-challenges-salinity-intrusion-and?

[5] https://znews.vn/sau-rieng-lap-ky-luc-nong-dan-chia-nhau-hang-chuc-nghin-ty-dong-post1525620.html

[6] Xuất khẩu rau quả năm 2024 lập kỷ lục 7,12 tỷ USD, dự báo sẽ vượt ngưỡng 8 tỷ USD trong năm 2025 – Nhịp sống kinh tế Việt Nam & Thế giới

[7] https://infographics.vn/interactive-thi-truong-xuat-khau-rau-qua-chinh-cua-viet-nam-nam-2024/214303.vna

[8] https://kinhtedothi.vn/xuat-khau-rau-qua-nam-2024-thang-lon.html

[9] https://thuongmaibiengioimiennui.gov.vn/

[10] https://thuonghieuquocgia.congthuong.vn/xuat-khau-xoai-cua-viet-nam-tang-435-366315.html

[11] https://60shomnay.vn/xuat-khau-sau-rieng-viet-nam-can-moc-3-ty-usd.html

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