Durian Prices Surge as China Demand Increases

Durian prices in Vietnam have seen a notable rebound, with traders purchasing grade A Monthong durians at VND75,000-80,000 (approximately $2.9-3.1) per kilogram, marking an 8% increase within a week. Similarly, grade A Ri6 durians are now priced between VND55,000-58,000 per kilogram. This comes after a period earlier this month when prices had dropped 20-30% year-on-year, with Monthong selling for VND46,000-68,000 and Ri6 for VND28,000-38,000.

According to Trung, a durian trader from Dak Lak province, the rise in prices is attributed to increased demand. "High-quality durians are snapped up as soon as they are available," he noted. This demand surge coincides with the Central Highlands entering its durian season, which is expected to last until September or October, a time when exports typically peak.

“High-quality durians are snapped up as soon as they are available.”Trung, durian trader

Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports have been robust, with an estimated $4.76 billion in exports during the first seven months of the year, reflecting a 23% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, July saw a 38% rise in shipments, reaching $1.06 billion. Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, highlighted that durians now account for more than half of all fruit exports and are a significant growth driver for the sector.

“Durians account for more than half of all exports and are the biggest growth driver.”Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association

Nguyen pointed out that Vietnam's durian exports have benefited from a new policy implemented by the Department of Customs, which prioritizes agricultural exports for same-day clearance at border gates, even outside regular hours and during holidays. This policy aims to enhance the efficiency of exports and capitalize on the current demand, especially from China.

Previously, Vietnamese durians faced stiff competition from Thailand, but with Thailand's harvest season concluded, Vietnam is now positioned as a key supplier in the market. This shift has allowed Vietnamese traders to ramp up purchases and meet the rising demand, particularly from Chinese consumers.