Ample room for Vietnamese fruits in Northeast Asian market

According to Dang Phuc Nguyen, secretary general of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, as of the end of July, the export of fruit and vegetables had earned US$3.8 billion, with durian alone accounting for 40% of the total. This success is attributed to the implementation of free trade agreements (FTAs) that have opened market and reduced tariffs for Vietnamese agricultural products.

Notably, in addition to China, markets in the Republic of Korea (RoK) and Japan have seen remarkable growth, making up 80% of the total value of Vietnamese fruit and vegetable exports.

Nguyen said that China, with its large population and high demand for fruits and vegetables, remains a traditional market for many Vietnamese fruits. Meanwhile, Japan and the RoK that are members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are also populous countries with high incomes and high demand for quality agricultural products. Therefore, Vietnam's exports to the two markets enjoy benefits from reduced tariffs and lower transport and logistics costs thanks to geographic distance, resulting in the quality of farm produce maintained.

According to Luong Ngoc Quang from the Plant Protection Department, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, under the RCEP, China has allowed the import of 12 Vietnamese agricultural products, including dragon fruit, longan, lychee, mango, and durian, among others. Japan has permitted dragon fruit, mango, lychee, and longan from Vietnam to enter its market, while the RoK has recently granted permission for fresh grapefruit from Vietnam.

Quang emphasised that gaining market access for a product will open opportunities to increase export turnover and affirm the position of Vietnamese agricultural products. However, negotiations for market opening are complicated and time-consuming, with some talks taking three to five years or longer.

Once access is granted, compliance with the importing country’s standards is crucial to avoid disruptions. A single violation by a producer or a shipment could affect the entire industry, leading to warnings or suspension of exports.

Nguyen Thanh Hieu, deputy director of the Southern Fruit Research Institute, said that Vietnamese fruits are becoming more diverse with high quality, gaining popularity in various markets. Following a period of international integration, most exporters have updated their knowledge of market regulations on food safety and plant quarantine.

However, farmers, as the starting point of the agricultural value chain, often lack sources to keep up with regulatory changes. Therefore, it is essential for regulatory bodies, local authorities, and businesses to support farmers in improving their production standards, packaging, and branding, thereby enhancing the reputation of Vietnamese fruits on the global market.