Viet Nam’s fruit and vegetable exports have made a strong start to the year 2026, achieving over US$598 million from early January to date, up 59.8% year on year, according to the Viet Nam Fruit and Vegetable Association (VinaFruit).

Imports rose 66.5% to about US$399 million, resulting in a trade surplus of more than US$199 million, reported VinaFruit.

Building on robust performance in 2025 and positive prospects for key products, exports are expected to maintain growth momentum this year, with a target of US$10 billion. However, VinaFruit noted that the industry must closely monitor and adapt to new import regulations, particularly China’s Decree 280 (Regulations on the Registration and Administration of Overseas Manufacturers of Imported Foods) to safeguard official export channels. The Chinese decree is scheduled to take effect from June 1, 2026

In 2025, durian remained the top export, generating US$3.86 billion and accounting for 45.09% of total fruit and vegetable export value, driven by expanded registered growing areas, official shipments to China, and deeper access to high-value markets such as the US and EU.

Coconut exports, both fresh and processed, followed with nearly US$534 million, while dragon fruit reached almost US$526 million. The signing of a protocol allowing fresh coconut exports to China provided a significant boost to the sector.

Despite rising competition, dragon fruit maintained a strong market share by shifting toward India and the Middle East.

Other products, including mangoes, pomelos, passion fruit, and longan, recorded stable growth. Notably, passion fruit accounted for around 25% of Viet Nam’s fruit and vegetable exports to the EU.

Source: VOV