Imports of Vietnamese durian have risen sharply across multiple markets, from China to the United States and South Korea, with growth reaching up to 500%. The surge in demand has also contributed to the significant rise in prices of the “king of fruits.”

In addition to strong exports to China, detailed customs statistics show that several other markets also recorded substantial increases in durian imports in January 2026.

Specifically, durian exports in January 2026 reached USD 117 million, representing a 275% increase compared with the same period last year. China remained the largest market, importing USD 109 million worth of Vietnamese durian, up 505% year-on-year.

Last year, durian exports to China faced difficulties during the first half of the year due to issues related to the detection of Auramine O and cadmium residues. This year, however, the smooth export performance from the start of the year has been viewed as a positive signal for the sector.

Notably, the second-largest market, the United States, recorded even stronger growth, with exports increasing by 529% to reach USD 3.6 million. Hong Kong (China) ranked third with export turnover of USD 1.8 million, up 340%. South Korea also saw nearly a 500% increase, reaching USD 387,000.

Among the top ten export destinations, Taiwan recorded the most remarkable growth, with imports increasing 24-fold compared with the same period in 2025.

According to exporting enterprises, the sharp increase in durian exports to markets beyond China indicates that the export market is expanding as the quality of Vietnamese durian continues to improve.

Currently, Vietnamese durian enjoys a temporary advantage as the dominant supplier in the market, pushing prices to high levels. The price of Ri6 durian grade A is currently around VND 105,000–110,000 per kilogram, while Thai variety durian is priced at approximately VND 165,000–170,000 per kilogram. The advantage of off-season durian supply is expected to last until the end of April.

The surge in durian exports has also significantly boosted the overall value of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, by the end of February, fruit and vegetable export turnover reached USD 1.1 billion, up 60% compared with the same period last year.

Source: Bao Thanh Nien