On April 13, at Phu Ngai Hamlet, Giao Long Commune, Vinh Long Province (formed from the merger of Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, and Vinh Long provinces), a ceremony was held to announce the export of the first shipment of Vinh Long pomelos to the Australian market. The event marks the practical implementation following Australia’s official approval for importing fresh pomelos from Vietnam. A journey of more than two years to export the first shipment The export of the first shipment of Vinh Long pomelos to Australia was not achieved in a short period. Since October 2025, Vietnamese and Australian authorities have completed negotiations and agreed on technical requirements. By April 10, 2026, Australia finalized the last procedures, and just two days later, the first shipment was dispatched. Under Australian regulations, Vietnamese pomelos must undergo a pest risk assessment process lasting nearly two years, ensuring they are free from 19 quarantine pests. The products must be grown in registered production areas, packed at approved facilities, and irradiated at a minimum dose of 400 Gy. Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tung, CEO of Vina T&T Group, stated that the company exported the first shipment just two days after completing all procedures, indicating that the entire supply chain—from farming areas to processing facilities—had been prepared in advance. According to Mr. Tung, Australia’s standards are equivalent to those of the United States, where the company has successfully exported for many years. As a result, production areas in the Mekong Delta, including Vinh Long Province, are well-prepared to meet these requirements. The shipment was irradiated at the Toan Phat facility, ensuring compliance with stringent phytosanitary standards. The enterprise has also invested in traceability systems and applies international standards such as GlobalGAP, HACCP, ISO, and Halal certification. “Meeting the requirements for 19 quarantine pests is not only a technical requirement but also a testament to Vietnam’s capability in quality control. Our success in the U.S. market provides a solid foundation for entering Australia,” Mr. Tung said. Currently, Vietnam has more than 100,000 hectares of pomelo cultivation, with an annual output of nearly 1 million tons. Following administrative consolidation, Vinh Long Province alone accounts for approximately 13,800 hectares, providing sufficient supply capacity for export. Opening new growth potential In 2025, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports reached USD 8.5 billion. In the first quarter of 2026, export value hit USD 1.5 billion, up more than 17% year-on-year. The sector aims to reach USD 10 billion in 2026, with pomelos expected to be a key growth driver. Mr. Chau Van Hoa, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Vinh Long Province, stated that after a period of developing standardized production areas, the official export to Australia represents an initial achievement for farmers in the Mekong Delta. The first shipment to Australia is considered a starting point for expanding market share in high-end markets. Australia maintains some of the world’s strictest biosecurity standards, while demand for tropical fruits remains stable and domestic production is limited. According to the enterprise, following Australia’s market opening, the growth target for pomelo exports in 2026 has been revised upward from 20% to 30%. A key advantage lies in the network of four processing plants located near production areas, which helps shorten the time from harvest to processing. Another notable factor is that pomelo preservation technology now allows storage for up to 70 days without compromising quality, enabling enterprises to better manage international shipping uncertainties. Giao Long Commune, formed from the merger of An Phuoc, Quoi Son, and Giao Long communes of Chau Thanh District (formerly in Ben Tre Province), has become a large-scale concentrated production area. The event location is associated with Kim Thanh factory, situated in a renowned green-skin pomelo cultivation zone. From the farmers’ perspective, the export of the first shipment to Australia brings direct benefits. Enterprises commit to purchasing pomelos at approximately VND 2,000/kg higher than market prices for certified production areas. Farms meeting GlobalGAP standards receive additional technical and cost support. Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tung emphasized that locating processing facilities near production areas helps ensure quality and strengthen connections with farmers. According to the plan, local authorities and enterprises will continue technical training, expand certified cultivation areas, and strengthen pest control to maintain quality. “This is a mandatory requirement to sustain stable exports to demanding markets such as Australia,” Mr. Tung added. Source: Bao Dien tu Dan Viet

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has announced amendments and supplements to a series of administrative procedures in the import-export sector, focusing on simplifying processes and facilitating business operations. The Ministry has issued a decision publishing revised and supplemented administrative procedures in the import-export field, aiming to further advance administrative reform and support enterprises in international trade activities. Accordingly, the decision provides a list of administrative procedures under the Ministry’s management that have been updated in line with new legal regulations, while abolishing outdated provisions. The decision will take effect from May 1, 2026. A notable highlight is the review and revision of procedures related to the issuance of Certificates of Origin (C/O), one of the most critical administrative requirements for exporters. According to the published list, 36 procedures have been amended and supplemented, primarily involving the issuance of both preferential and non-preferential C/Os under various free trade agreements (FTAs). The revised C/O forms cover multiple major markets and agreements, including ASEAN, China, South Korea, Japan, CPTPP, RCEP, and UKVFTA, as well as procedures related to reissuance, retrospective issuance, back-to-back C/Os, and certification for specific cases such as goods from non-tariff zones and bonded warehouses. In addition, the Ministry has revised procedures related to granting approval for traders to self-certify the origin of goods within ASEAN. This move aligns with international practices, helping to reduce administrative burdens and enhance business autonomy. These amendments and supplements are based on newly issued legal documents, including Circular No. 12/2026/TT-BCT, which abolishes certain outdated provisions, thereby ensuring consistency and transparency in the legal framework governing import-export activities. The reforms are expected to shorten processing times, reduce compliance costs for businesses, and improve the effective utilization of tariff preferences under the FTAs to which Vietnam is a signatory. In the context of continued strong growth in Vietnam’s import-export turnover, administrative reform—particularly in C/O issuance—is considered a key factor in enhancing business competitiveness, expanding market access, and enabling deeper integration into global supply chains. Source: Bao Cong Thuong

The Southern Region Branch of the Department of Quality, Processing, and Market Development has recently added an appendix specifying the subjects and scope of monitoring under the 2026 Residue Monitoring Program for toxic substances in animals and aquaculture products in the Southern region. The decision was issued following petitions from businesses experiencing procedural hurdles in certifying shrimp export shipments. After shrimp export enterprises in Ca Mau "called for help" due to omissions in the monitoring subjects—which left raw shrimp materials ineligible for health certificates required for export to the EU and equivalent markets, causing direct financial losses—the Southern Branch of the Department of Quality, Processing, and Market Development (NAFIQPM) issued an adjusting official dispatch. Acting on instructions from the NAFIQPM Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment regarding adjustments and updates to the 2026 Residue Monitoring Program in the Southern region, the Southern Branch of NAFIQPM has amended the monitoring subjects and scope. According to the updated appendix, the subjects and scope of monitoring now include: Black tiger shrimp; whiteleg shrimp; banana shrimp; greasyback shrimp; pangasius; red tilapia; catfish (yellow catfish, African catfish); bronze featherback/clown featherback; barramundi; naked catfish; snakehead fish; tilapia; climbing perch; and eels. The monitoring scope covers 222 farming areas (communes and wards) across Southern provinces and cities, including: 7 farming areas in Lam Dong; 3 in Dong Nai; 9 in Tay Ninh; 3 in Ho Chi Minh City; 36 in Dong Thap; 35 in An Giang; 38 in Vĩnh Long; 36 in Can Tho; and 55 in Ca Mau. As previously reported by Tien Phong, based on petitions from shrimp exporters, the Ca Mau Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (CASEP) sent an official dispatch to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), requesting an appeal to NAFIQPM to support the removal of obstacles regarding farming areas and residue monitoring subjects for seafood enterprises in Ca Mau. Previously, businesses reported that the 2026 appendix for monitoring categories, subjects, and scope did not fully include indigenous shrimp species (black tiger shrimp, banana shrimp, greasyback shrimp, and whiteleg shrimp) in key farming areas within Ca Mau province. This resulted in indigenous shrimp purchased from localities not listed in the directory being ineligible for health certificates for the EU and equivalent markets, leading to canceled orders and incurred warehousing costs. Immediately following these reports, VASEP submitted a written petition to the competent authorities for resolution. VASEP proposed that authorities continue to support supplementary registration and the issuance of certificates for shrimp export shipments based on previously monitored farming areas, ensuring the continuity of raw material regions and certification procedures for export. "The prompt reception and resolution of these bottlenecks by the authorities enable shrimp enterprises to maintain production and export, continuing the goal of double-digit export growth this year," a VASEP leader stated. Source: Bao Tien Phong

Reduced imports from China, combined with high fuel prices causing container trucks to cease operations, have driven fresh chili prices down to 5,000 - 7,000 VND per kg. In early April, along Truong Sa Street on the south bank of the Tra Khuc River in Quang Ngai, residents spread out chilies to dry, covering a stretch of about 2 km. Truong Sa is the main route through An Phu Commune, one of the province's renowned chili-growing localities, where sidewalks are frequently utilized for drying. Whenever prices drop, the volume of dried chilies along the roadside increases significantly. Mr. Nguyen Van Anh, owner of a 750 m2 chili field in An Phu Commune, stated that he has never seen fresh chili prices fall as shockingly as this year. Last year, chilies averaged 50,000 VND per kg, occasionally peaking at over 70,000 VND, allowing him to earn approximately 50 million VND for nearly one ton. This year, the price started at 14,000 VND at the beginning of the season and plummeted to 5,000–7,000 VND per kg by April 9. Similarly, a somber atmosphere pervades the fields along the Tra Bong River in communes such as Binh Chuong, Binh Son, and Binh Minh. "Investment costs are about 5 million VND per sao (500m2), and hiring harvesters costs about 250,000–300,000 VND per day. At current prices, we cannot even cover the labor costs," said Mr. Tran Van Thanh, a chili farmer. According to traders, chilies in Quang Ngai are primarily exported to China via unofficial channels. The price drop is due to declining import demand from this country, coupled with soaring transportation costs that have forced domestic traders to purchase in moderation. Regarding logistics costs specifically, for the approximately 1,000 km journey from Quang Ngai to the northern border gates, a one-way trip for a container truck typically consumes about 500–700 liters of diesel. In early April, diesel prices peaked at over 40,000 VND per liter—double the price of last year—meaning each container incurred an additional 12–15 million VND in one-way costs. Consequently, each round trip from Quang Ngai to the north saw expenses inflated by nearly 30 million VND. By the afternoon of April 9, diesel prices decreased to 32,960 VND per liter, offering some relief to transport costs, though they remain 1.5 times higher than last year. For this reason, the traffic of container trucks carrying fresh chilies is not as bustling as in previous years. Farmers are either delaying harvests in hopes of a price recovery or switching to drying the chilies for storage. This situation has forced some container drivers to park for several days to consolidate enough fresh stock and wait for fuel prices to drop before heading north. According to the Quang Ngai Provincial Sub-Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection, the province has a vast chili cultivation area. In this year's Winter-Spring crop alone, residents planted over 1,000 hectares with an average annual output of about 21,000 tons. However, chili cultivation remains fragmented and small-scale, without large-scale specialized farming zones. Chili prices are currently precarious as they depend on export capabilities to China and rely primarily on intermediary traders without stable corporate underwriting, leading to high risks when the market stops importing. Faced with the deep price decline, some purchasing facilities are storing chilies in cold warehouses to wait for price increases or are drying them. The agency has proposed developing large, concentrated production zones and establishing market information systems to connect farmers with enterprises, forming production linkage chains to mitigate risks against price fluctuations. Source: VnExpress

Based on a survey of business performance in the first quarter of 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Business Association (HUBA) has proposed several measures to support enterprises in overcoming difficulties and stabilizing production and exports. Exporters face risk of order cancellations According to Mr. Nguyen Phuoc Hung, Standing Vice Chairman of HUBA, since late February 2026, the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East has placed increasing pressure on Vietnamese enterprises. Fuel prices and petroleum-based input materials have risen by 30–40%, while logistics costs for exports have doubled or even tripled. Orders have been fragmented, transportation routes have become unstable, payment cycles have lengthened due to delayed remittances, and uncertainty in the delivery of imported materials and equipment has disrupted production schedules. These factors have increased the risk of order cancellations and contract penalties. In the textile and fashion sector, logistics costs have tripled, with transit times extended by up to 20 days. Freight rates have surged significantly, with container shipping costs to the United States and Europe rising 2–3 times. Shipments to the U.S. East Coast now incur additional war risk surcharges ranging from USD 2,000 to 4,000 per container. At the same time, shortages of empty containers have been reported at major ports such as Cat Lai and Hai Phong due to extended vessel turnaround times. Notably, some exporters are facing the risk of postponed or canceled orders to the Middle East without compensation under force majeure clauses. International payments and letters of credit confirmations have also encountered difficulties due to disruptions in the banking system linked to sanctions and security risks. Call for export lending rates below 6% In addition to external pressures, businesses are also facing internal challenges, including difficulties in recruiting and retaining unskilled labor, high training costs, and significant capital requirements to meet ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards. Meanwhile, bank credit is typically short-term and does not align with current capital cycles. Lending rates, commonly above 8.5% per year—and up to 14–15% in some sectors such as real estate—are eroding profit margins. In response, enterprises have proposed that the banking system adopt more flexible credit mechanisms, including easing lending conditions and extending loan tenors for export-related orders. HUBA also recommended reducing lending rates to below 6% per year for export enterprises to alleviate financial pressure, based on a risk-sharing approach to support cash flow stability. Businesses further proposed that the government consider reducing corporate income tax and accelerating tax refund processes. Regulations on specialized inspections should be reformed toward risk-based management with increased post-clearance audits to facilitate production and trade activities. Regarding logistics costs, enterprises noted that the current logistics system remains fragmented, costly, and highly vulnerable to global disruptions. Ongoing volatility in transportation and global supply chains continues to increase input costs and weaken competitiveness. Therefore, businesses recommended that Ho Chi Minh City accelerate the development of a synchronized and modern logistics system, strengthen regional connectivity, invest in infrastructure, develop logistics hubs, and promote the application of technology to optimize operations and reduce service costs. They also called for enhanced support measures, including increased financial assistance for trade promotion, support for international market access, diversification of export markets, assistance in meeting international standards, and improved provision of market intelligence, forecasts, and early warnings on geopolitical risks. In the short term, enterprises suggested that the city explore mechanisms to stabilize logistics costs and consider establishing a transportation support fund to help businesses cope with market volatility. Additionally, they proposed the implementation of policies supporting green transformation, including green credit mechanisms and assistance for emissions accounting and reduction. Despite adverse impacts from U.S. reciprocal tariffs and global geopolitical tensions, business operations in the first quarter remained relatively stable due to flexible response strategies. Survey results showed that 86% of enterprises reported stable revenue, while 75% maintained profitability. Notably, 79.5% expect business conditions to improve in the next quarter, and 91% believe the investment and business environment in Ho Chi Minh City is becoming more favorable. As a result, 86% of enterprises plan to expand hiring in the near term. Source: Tap chi Kinh te - Tai chinh

China has regained its position as the largest export market for Vietnam’s agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sector in the first quarter of this year, surpassing the United States in share, as multiple key product groups recorded strong growth in exports to the neighboring market. According to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, export turnover of agriculture, forestry, and fisheries products in the first three months reached USD 16.69 billion, up 5.9% year-on-year. China accounted for 22.1% of total exports, overtaking the United States (18.3%) and Japan (7.1%) to officially become the largest market. Notably, exports to China surged by 37.6%, the highest growth rate among major markets. This momentum was not driven by a single commodity but by broad-based growth across key sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, and forestry products. Rice recorded the most significant breakthrough, with export value to China increasing 2.5 times, as the country boosted imports to strengthen food security. This factor strongly contributed to the overall export performance in the first quarter. Coffee also showed notable developments. Although the average export price declined by 16.9% overall, export value to China doubled, reflecting rapidly expanding consumption trends in this market. In the fruit and vegetable segment, China remained the largest destination, accounting for approximately 54% of total market share. Export value to China increased by 76.2%, with key products such as durian, jackfruit, and tropical fruits leveraging geographical advantages and strong demand. Fisheries exports also accelerated, with shipments to China rising by 58.5%. Meanwhile, wood and wood products increased by 48.5%, helping offset declines in the U.S. market. Other products such as cashew nuts grew by 23.7%, while cassava and cassava-based products rose by 15.1%, further reinforcing China’s role in Vietnam’s export structure. Overall, Asia remained the largest consumption region, accounting for 45.1% of Vietnam’s total agriculture, forestry, and fisheries exports, reflecting a shift toward geographically closer markets with lower logistics costs. On the import side, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries imports reached USD 11.91 billion, up 3.6%. As a result, the sector maintained a trade surplus of USD 4.78 billion, an increase of 12% year-on-year. Major contributors to the surplus included forestry products (USD 3.32 billion), fisheries (USD 1.87 billion), and agricultural products (USD 1.31 billion). China’s return as the leading market opens up significant growth opportunities but also raises familiar concerns regarding market dependency. As technical standards and import policies in this market become increasingly stringent, the challenge is not only to increase output but also to enhance quality and ensure supply chain stability. Source: Kinh te Sai Gon Online

Decree 46 and Resolution 66 regarding food declaration and registration have been officially suspended, according to a newly issued Government Resolution. The Government has recently issued Resolution 15, dated April 6, to suspend the implementation of Decree 46 and Resolution 66 on food declaration and registration until the Amended Law on Food Safety and its new guiding documents take effect. During the suspension of these two documents, Government Decree 15/2018—which stipulates certain articles of the Law on Food Safety—and its existing guiding documents will remain in force. Applications submitted before the effective date of this Resolution will continue to be processed under Decree 15/2018. The Ministries of Health, Industry and Trade, and Agriculture and Environment have been tasked with providing implementation guidance within their respective management areas. They are also required to review the 2010 Law on Food Safety to propose amendments. Relevant agencies are to complete the connection and sharing of data with the National Public Service Portal to unify data from central to local levels. These agencies must increase the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in food product management to enhance monitoring, traceability, and early risk detection capabilities. Furthermore, the Government has requested the Ministry of Health to inspect the declaration, advertising, and production conditions of health supplements. The Ministry of Industry and Trade will monitor business operations and handle counterfeit food, smuggled goods, and fraud in e-commerce. The Ministry of Science and Technology is responsible for managing accreditation activities and testing laboratories, as well as refining food standards. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism will manage food advertising activities. Decree 46 and Resolution 66, which guide the implementation of the Law on Food Safety, initially took effect on January 26. The new regulations imposed stricter management requirements, particularly for imported food, health supplements, and state inspection activities regarding food safety. However, a lack of guiding documents caused the importation of food and raw materials for food production to fall into a state of congestion nationwide. By late January, thousands of cargo containers were "stuck" at border gates and seaports due to obstacles in implementing these regulations. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment at a regular press conference on February 5, in just four days (January 26–29), over 700 import shipments—equivalent to approximately 300,000 tons—were stalled at border gates and ports. The affected items were primarily fresh agricultural products and semi-processed plant-based products such as vegetables, tubers, fruits, rice, paddy, and cassava, along with some processed and pre-packaged foods. Over a week later, the Government agreed to delay the implementation of both documents until April 15. During this period, food safety regulations for imported food and agricultural products followed the previous rules (Decree 15). The Amended Law on Food Safety is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly during the upcoming October session, after which guiding Decrees will be issued. At a conference in early February, many associations proposed the abolition of Decree 46 and Resolution 66 while awaiting the new law. Regarding the upcoming legal revisions, experts suggest that management agencies should only introduce new procedures once they can demonstrate effectiveness in improving food safety without disrupting production and business, and after comprehensive impact assessments and consultations have been conducted. Source: VnExpress

Exports of cassava and cassava-based products in the first quarter of 2026 recorded positive growth in both volume and value, driven by recovering demand from the Chinese market. However, the export outlook in the coming period may be affected by import adjustment trends in this market and new management regulations expected to take effect in mid-2026. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam's export activities for cassava and cassava products in March and the first quarter of 2026 saw a distinct breakthrough in value, despite domestic raw material supplies facing local shortages in some production areas. Vietnam remains the leading supplier of cassava chips and starch to the Chinese market, particularly for the animal feed, food processing, and ethanol production industries. Citing data from the General Department of Vietnam Customs, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated that in the first 15 days of March 2026, Vietnam's exports of cassava and cassava products reached 259.6 thousand tons, valued at 90.51 million USD, an 8.5% increase in volume and a 29.6% increase in value compared to the same period in 2025. Specifically, cassava exports alone reached over 101.53 thousand tons, valued at 22.57 million USD, up 8.0% in volume and 25.4% in value. The cumulative total from the beginning of 2026 to March 15, 2026, reached 1.06 million tons with a value of 359.41 million USD, up 10.7% in volume and 18.4% in value year-on-year. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MRE), the export volume of cassava and cassava products in March 2026 is estimated at 580 thousand tons with a value of 202.3 million USD. For the first three months of 2026, the total volume and value of this commodity reached 1.4 million tons and 471.2 million USD, increasing by 14.4% in volume and 26.4% in value compared to the same period in 2025. The average export price of cassava and cassava products in the first three months of 2026 was estimated at 339.9 USD/ton, up 10.4% year-on-year, indicating that a recovery in prices has contributed significantly to improving export turnover. Providing further analysis, the Ministry of Industry and Trade noted that in January and February 2026, many processing plants in Vietnam faced difficulties with domestic fresh root supply, causing exports during this period to decrease by 8.1% in volume and 3.0% in value at certain points, reaching approximately 517.6 thousand tons valued at 205.3 million USD. Regarding the product structure, Vietnam's cassava exports remain focused on two main groups: cassava starch and dried cassava chips, while the proportion of deep-processed products remains limited. In the first two months of 2026, cassava starch accounted for about 64.21% of total volume and 76.36% of total export value, mostly consumed in the Chinese market. Meanwhile, dried cassava chips accounted for about 35.49% of total volume and 23.2% of total export value, reaching 286.1 thousand tons with a value of 62.38 million USD, a dramatic surge of 174% in volume and 185.1% in value compared to last year. This sudden growth was primarily driven by high demand for animal feed and ethanol production in China following the Lunar New Year holiday. Other products such as arrowroot, industrial alcohol, and post-starch (modified) products still account for a small share of the export structure, despite being a high-value-added group encouraged for development to enhance the cassava industry's value chain efficiency in the near future. From an import market perspective, the Ministry of Industry and Trade cited data from China Customs showing that in the first two months of 2026, the country's imports of cassava chips and starch reached approximately 1.23 million tons valued at 431.35 million USD, an 8.9% decrease in volume but a 1.6% increase in value compared to last year. This development indicates that import demand is trending toward adjustment after a sharp increase in 2025, when cassava prices fell to record lows, prompting Chinese enterprises to boost raw material stockpiling. Forecasts for 2026 suggest that China's total cassava starch imports may stabilize or slightly decrease, fluctuating between 3.2–3.5 million tons. Demand from industries such as food, textiles, paper, and ethanol production is predicted to maintain a natural growth rate of about 3–5%, though speculative stockpiling demand is likely to decrease as prices are no longer at the lows seen last year. Accordingly, the international market prices for cassava and cassava starch are forecasted to exit the bottom range and stabilize between 420–530 USD/ton. A noteworthy policy factor is that starting June 1, 2026, China will officially implement Decree 280, replacing Decree 248, with stricter requirements for enterprise registration, traceability, and packaging/labeling standards for imported food. This regulation is assessed as potentially causing local disruptions to the flow of cassava and cassava product exports in the second half of 2026 if businesses fail to complete procedures and meet new standards in a timely manner. Source: Tap chi Kinh te - Tai chinh

The Multilateral Trade Policy Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade is proposing that the European Union revise the list of fragrant rice varieties to better align with those currently cultivated in Vietnam. Under the terms of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), the European Union grants Vietnam an annual quota of 80,000 tons of rice, including 30,000 tons of milled rice, 20,000 tons of unmilled rice, and 30,000 tons of fragrant rice. For fragrant rice exports to qualify, shipments must be accompanied by a certificate of variety and must fall within the list of approved rice varieties specified in the Agreement. Currently, nine varieties are eligible for a 0% tariff rate when exported to the EU, including Jasmine 85, ST5, ST20, Nang Hoa 9, VD20, RVT, OM4900, OM5451, and Tai Nguyen Cho Dao rice. However, according to Mr. Ngo Chung Khanh, Deputy Director General of the Multilateral Trade Policy Department, this list was negotiated during 2014–2015 and is no longer aligned with current production realities. “Some enterprises are facing difficulties exporting to the EU because certain fragrant rice varieties currently cultivated in Vietnam are not included in the agreed list,” Mr. Khanh noted. In response, the Department is proposing that the EU revise the list to reflect the varieties currently grown in Vietnam. It remains unclear which varieties will be included in the revised list. However, according to the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, commonly cultivated fragrant rice varieties in the Mekong Delta currently include ST24, ST25, Dai Thom 8, and OM18. Previously, in March 2026, the Department issued certificates of variety for four shipments of fragrant rice exported to the EU by two enterprises, with a total volume of more than 380 tons. According to experts, the growing presence of Vietnamese rice in the European market reflects a broader strategy to restructure export markets. While Vietnam’s rice exports were previously concentrated in traditional markets such as the Philippines, China, and Africa, the market structure is gradually becoming more diversified. Many enterprises have proactively expanded into higher-value markets such as Europe by leveraging next-generation free trade agreements, including the EVFTA, UKVFTA, and CPTPP. Although export volumes to the EU remain modest, the market offers high value-added potential and serves as a benchmark for quality. Once products meet EU standards, access to other developed markets becomes more feasible. Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, Director of Phuoc Thanh IV Production and Trading Co., Ltd. (Vinh Long), stated that shifting toward high-quality rice segments is an inevitable trend for Vietnam’s rice industry. Vietnam is unlikely to compete with India in the low-cost rice segment. Instead, the appropriate strategy is to focus on mid- and high-end segments, where Vietnam can compete with Thailand and Cambodia. Source: VNBUSINESS

According to experts, for Vietnam’s coconut industry to sustain long-term growth, multiple bottlenecks across production, processing, and value chain organization must be addressed. Despite export turnover exceeding USD 1.1 billion annually, Vietnam’s coconut industry has yet to establish a commensurate position in the global market. The country currently accounts for only around 8% of the fresh coconut market share in China—the world’s largest consumer, importing approximately 1.1 million tons in 2025—significantly lower than Indonesia and Thailand. In addition to limited market share, the value of Vietnamese coconuts remains lower than that of competing countries. Experts identify the primary bottleneck as inconsistent quality, largely due to fragmented production structures and insufficient control over plant varieties. Dr. Tran Minh Hai, Vice Rector of the School of Public Policy and Rural Development, noted that Vietnam currently has two main coconut categories: oil coconuts and drinking coconuts. However, in many localities, these varieties are intercropped, leading to cross-pollination, reduced genetic purity, and inconsistent fruit quality. Opportunities for transformation According to Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tung, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association and CEO of Vina T&T Group, one of the key challenges facing the coconut industry is its small-scale and fragmented production structure. Most coconut-growing areas are still managed by smallholder farmers, making it difficult to standardize production and ensure stable supply. “When production remains fragmented, building standardized raw material zones to support large-scale exports becomes challenging. This also complicates procurement, classification, and packaging processes,” Mr. Tung said. As importing markets increasingly impose stricter requirements on quality standards and traceability, fragmented production may become a significant barrier for export enterprises. Experts suggest that reorganizing production through cooperative models and strengthening linkages with enterprises involved in procurement and processing will be a critical solution. Another major challenge is logistics costs. Due to their bulk and space requirements, fresh coconuts incur relatively high transportation costs to distant markets such as the United States and Europe, directly affecting product pricing and competitiveness. Meanwhile, major coconut-producing countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand have relatively well-developed supply chains and logistics systems, enabling them to reduce costs and enhance export efficiency. Mr. Tung emphasized that optimizing logistics, along with improving storage and transportation systems, will be essential to enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese coconuts in the coming period. Although Vietnam’s coconut processing industry has made notable progress in recent years, the proportion of deeply processed products remains below its potential. Currently, a significant share of coconut output is still exported in raw or semi-processed form. Meanwhile, high value-added products such as cosmetics, functional foods, and refined industrial inputs have yet to be fully exploited. With greater investment in deep processing technologies, the economic value of coconuts could increase multiple times compared to raw exports. The development of value-added products not only enhances economic returns but also expands export markets and reduces dependence on raw commodity exports. “Vietnam’s coconut industry stands at a ‘breakthrough’ moment. To realize this, stronger linkages between farmers and enterprises through clean and sustainable value chains are essential,” Mr. Tung stated. Need for coordinated policies for sustainable development As international markets increasingly demand higher environmental standards and traceability, Vietnam’s coconut industry is gradually transitioning toward green and sustainable production models. According to Mr. Cao Ba Dang Khoa, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Vietnam Coconut Association, developing internationally standardized raw material zones is an inevitable trend if the industry aims to enhance value and expand export markets. “Coconut-growing areas need to be reorganized toward concentrated production, applying sustainable farming practices and meeting international standards such as GlobalGAP or Organic,” Mr. Khoa said. Regarding varieties, instead of traditional propagation methods, certified mother trees with clear genetic origins and regulatory compliance are now required. Technologies such as tissue culture and embryo culture are being applied to develop high-quality planting materials, supporting participation in carbon credit markets. In production, cultivation and care must be managed through farming logs that meet strict international standards, alongside strengthened pest control and early warning systems. In processing, enterprises need to invest further in harvesting and deep processing technologies tailored to specific product groups, while also utilizing by-products to develop circular, environmentally friendly products, thereby enhancing value across the entire coconut value chain. “Many enterprises have invested in technologies to fully utilize coconut by-products—from husks and shells to coconut water—creating a wide range of new products for various industries,” Mr. Khoa noted. According to the Vietnam Coconut Association, the industry has received increasing attention from government authorities in recent years. Coconut has been identified as a key national crop, with numerous trade promotion programs and international cooperation initiatives implemented to support market expansion. However, to ensure sustainable development, further improvements in support mechanisms and policies are needed. Local authorities must actively monitor production data by region and strengthen linkages with cooperatives and enterprises to build stable supply chains. At the provincial level, authorities should continue implementing measures to address saline intrusion, control pests and diseases, and support farmers in adopting advanced technologies. In addition, organizing forums and workshops to share market information and address business challenges remains necessary. “To achieve sustainable development, continuous dialogue among government, businesses, and farmers is essential to resolve challenges, promote production linkages, apply technology, develop tourism and logistics, and enhance international trade promotion,” Mr. Khoa emphasized. The long-term goal of Vietnam’s coconut industry is to establish a sustainable supply chain from farm to processing facilities and end markets. This integrated value chain will not only enhance the value of coconuts but also ensure stable livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of farming households. With its current development foundation and increasing investment in technology, raw material zones, and deep processing, Vietnam’s coconut industry is expected to continue growing and gradually become a key agricultural export sector. Source: Bao Nong nghiep va Moi truong

In the context of declining seafood exports to many major markets, China & Hong Kong remain the largest markets for Vietnamese seafood, with a growth rate of nearly 45% in the first quarter. According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), in March 2026, Vietnam's seafood exports reached approximately 927 million USD, an increase of over 5% compared to the same period. The cumulative total for the first quarter of 2026 reached 2.64 billion USD, up nearly 8% year-on-year. China remains the primary growth driver VASEP assessed that the above increase is significantly lower than the nearly 20% growth seen in the first two months, indicating a slowdown and a heavy reliance on a few key drivers. Regarding markets, VASEP stated that in the first quarter, China & Hong Kong maintained their position as the largest market for Vietnamese seafood, with a turnover of approximately 764 million USD, up nearly 45% over the same period. In March alone, exports to this market reached over 250 million USD, an increase of over 50%. "This is not only the highest growth rate among key markets but also the decisive factor helping the entire industry maintain positive growth while many large markets such as the United States, Japan, and South Korea all declined," evaluated Ms. Le Hang, Deputy Secretary-General of VASEP. At the same time, she pointed out that the momentum from China in the first quarter stemmed mainly from three factors: First, seasonal factors and consumption during the Lunar New Year. In 2026, the Lunar New Year fell in mid-February, leading to a surge in demand for seafood imports—especially whole shrimp, live seafood, and premium consumer products—starting from the end of the previous year and lasting through the beginning of the first quarter. This explains the sudden spike in items like lobster and shrimp in general. Second, actual demand remains positive in the mid-to-high-end segment. Import data shows that China continued to increase shrimp imports in the first two months of the year, with an increase of about 18%. Notably, in the live lobster segment, changes in tariffs and supply from Canada created a "market gap," opening up clear opportunities for alternative suppliers, including Vietnam. Third, geographical advantages and supply chain flexibility allow Vietnamese enterprises to better capitalize on short-term market upturns, especially during peak consumption periods. "However, it should be noted that the strong growth in the first quarter also carries a timing factor. Part of the high turnover reflects the need for stockpiling and seasonal service rather than a long-term baseline growth trend. This necessitates a clear distinction between 'seasonal growth' and 'substantive growth' when evaluating the outlook for the following months," Ms. Le Hang emphasized. Growth rate in the second quarter may slow down The VASEP representative also warned that despite bringing short-term growth, heavy reliance on China poses several risks. First, the volatility related to China's import policies and management can quickly and strongly affect trade flows. Changes in border control, quality standards, or licensing rhythms could cause export fluctuations in the short term. Additionally, the highly seasonal nature of this market makes demand unstable throughout the year. After the peak period at the beginning of the year, imports may stall in the following months, especially if domestic inventories rise. Furthermore, competition is increasing, particularly from large suppliers like Ecuador in the competitively priced whole shrimp segment. "Therefore, while China is the main driver in the short term, rebalancing the market structure remains an important requirement to ensure sustainable growth," Ms. Le Hang advised. According to VASEP, while China grew strongly, other key markets have not yet shown a clear recovery. Accordingly, exports to the United States in the first quarter decreased by more than 10%, continuing to be the biggest "bottleneck" due to both demand factors and technical barriers like MMPA/COA regulations and tariff barriers such as anti-dumping duties on shrimp. Exports to Japan and South Korea also fell by about 10%, reflecting that consumption has not improved significantly. Meanwhile, exports to the EU remained almost flat, showing stable demand but not strong enough to create growth. However, this market still offers opportunities in the whitefish segment and products meeting sustainability standards. On a positive note, markets such as ASEAN, Australia, Taiwan, and several emerging markets continued to grow, contributing to the diversification of outlets. Forecasting the seafood export situation in the second quarter of 2026, Ms. Le Hang believed that China will still play a leading role, but growth will be more "substantive." According to her, in the second quarter of 2026, China & Hong Kong are likely to remain the largest contributors to Vietnam's seafood export growth. However, the growth rate may slow down compared to the first quarter as seasonal factors fade. She also noted that growth will depend more on actual consumer demand and the ability of Vietnamese enterprises to maintain market share amid increasing competition. Segments catering to "affordable price – convenience" needs will likely play a more important role than seasonal premium product groups. "For the entire industry, exports in the second quarter are forecasted to continue positive growth but with clear differentiation. Shrimp and pangasius remain the pillars; China is the main driver; while the US and some developed markets continue to be restraining factors. Markets with logistical advantages (close proximity, convenient transportation) along with tariff advantages from FTAs will be the preferred choices for seafood enterprises this year," evaluated Ms. Le Hang - Deputy Secretary-General of VASEP. Source: Dien dan Doanh nghiep đien tu

In the first quarter of 2026, the country's export turnover of agriculture, forestry, and fishery products reached 16.69 billion USD, an increase of 5.9% compared to the same period in 2025. However, while many export items increased in volume, their value did not rise proportionally—and in some cases even declined—due to falling export prices. Restructuring products and shifting strongly toward high-quality markets are essential to halting this price slide and ensuring profits for farmers and businesses. Mr. Tran Gia Long, Deputy Director of Planning and Finance (Ministry of Agriculture and Environment), noted that the downward price trend is most evident in the coffee industry. The average export price fell to approximately 4,697 USD/ton, a nearly 17% decrease compared to the same period, leading to a 6.4% drop in value despite a 12.6% increase in export volume. Rice followed, with export volume rising slightly by 0.2%, yet its value decreased by 7.8% as average prices dropped by 8%. Other commodities such as rubber and pepper grew in volume but faced price pressures, with rubber falling by 5.1% and pepper by 5.9%; cashew nuts saw slight declines in both volume and value as export prices edged down 0.8% year-on-year. The cause of this situation lies in the general downward price trend on the global market, coupled with increasingly fierce competition among countries exporting similar commodities. The drop in agricultural export prices has directly impacted the domestic market, affecting the income and reinvestment capacity of farmers. Since early March, coffee prices in the Central Highlands provinces have decreased by about 3,200–3,800 VND/kg, falling to just over 90,000 VND/kg. Similarly, winter-spring paddy prices continued to decline, especially as the peak harvest season began, with an average decrease of about 500 VND/kg. For pepper, domestic prices fell primarily due to a sharp increase in supply during the main harvest season, while purchasing power has not improved accordingly. By late March, pepper prices in key growing regions had dropped by 7,500–8,500 VND/kg compared to late February, fluctuating around 139,000–140,500 VND/kg depending on the locality. This development shows that when export prices decline, the domestic market has almost no "buffer zone" to maintain prices, causing an immediate impact on production. This also reflects the heavy dependence of many commodities on the raw material market, where prices fluctuate primarily according to global supply and demand. Looking at the coffee industry, Vietnam still primarily exports Robusta coffee as raw material, resulting in limited added value. Amid improved global supply, Robusta prices on the world market continue to face downward pressure, pulling export prices down. According to the Department of Import and Export (Ministry of Industry and Trade), by early March 2026, certified Robusta inventories on the ICE London exchange had risen to their highest level in over three months. Meanwhile, data from the International Coffee Organization (ICO) shows that global Robusta exports from October 2025 to January 2026 increased sharply due to recovering supply from major producers like Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia, thereby intensifying price pressure. However, while Robusta is constantly under pressure from oversupply, Arabica coffee—a product line with clearly defined quality and standards—has tended to increase in price thanks to stable consumption demand in the premium segment. This difference clearly demonstrates that price is closely linked to production standardization and product value. According to the Chairman of the Vietnam Coffee-Cocoa Association, Nguyen Nam Hai, promoting deep processing is an urgent requirement to enhance the value of exported coffee. In the long term, it is necessary to build a clear standard system for Robusta coffee as well as a national promotion strategy, including product positioning, brand identity, and origin stories to gradually improve its status and establish a better price floor on the international market. Regarding rice, exports are still mainly conducted in large volumes to traditional markets, making prices susceptible to being "swept along" by the general floor, especially as global supply increases. Mr. Nguyen Chanh Trung, Director of Hung Viet Rice Co., Ltd., suggested a shift toward developing higher-value products, such as small-scale packaging, building private brands, and distributing by market segment. This approach not only raises product value but also reduces dependence on general price fluctuations. In fact, Vietnam's specialty, fragrant, and low-emission "green rice" varieties exported to high-quality markets like the US, Japan, and the EU have maintained good price levels and remained less affected by global rice market volatility. In addition to coffee and rice, pepper is in a similar situation; in the first two months of the year, exports were still primarily raw and unprocessed, accounting for 82.3% of total export volume. This reveals a trend of over-dependence on the raw material market, causing export prices to fluctuate erratically. It is evident that halting the decline of agricultural export prices cannot rely solely on global market developments but depends largely on the self-adjustment capacity of each agricultural sector. When products are standardized for quality, approached through clear customer segments, and shifted toward high-value markets, export prices will remain stable, helping each industry gradually master price developments in the global agricultural market. Source: Bao Nhan Dan

The Government has issued Decree No. 127/2026/NĐ-CP dated April 6, 2026, regulating quality management and development policies for Halal products and services. Completing the regulatory framework and promoting Halal product development Accordingly, the Decree provides detailed regulations on quality requirements, labeling, traceability, testing activities, Halal certification, inspection, violation handling in quality management, and support policies for Halal products and services. Under the Decree, the quality management of Halal products and services must fully comply with Vietnamese laws on product and goods quality, food safety, standards and technical regulations, consumer protection, competition, and intellectual property. It must also comply with relevant international treaties and agreements to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a party. Management principles are defined to ensure consistency, transparency, and non-discrimination in all state management activities and Halal conformity assessment processes. To facilitate trade and international economic integration, the development and application of Vietnam’s Halal standards shall follow the principle of harmonization with international standards, guidelines, and practices. The Decree also emphasizes the protection of the lawful rights and interests of consumers, particularly Muslim consumers, regarding Halal products and services, while also safeguarding the rights and interests of organizations and individuals engaged in lawful production and business of Halal products and services. Acts of trade fraud, counterfeit production, or substandard products labeled as Halal will be strictly handled. In addition, the Decree encourages and facilitates organizations and individuals from all economic sectors to invest in, produce, trade, and provide Halal products and services; promotes innovation, the application of science and technology, sustainable development, and enhances the competitiveness of Vietnam’s Halal industry in the global value chain. Standards and requirements for Halal products and services According to the Decree, national standards for Halal products and services are to be developed, published, and applied in accordance with laws on standards and technical regulations. The development and revision process must ensure the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs and Muslim experts with expertise in Halal requirements during consultation and appraisal stages. The application of Halal standards is implemented flexibly depending on production and business purposes. For export products, producers shall apply standards based on the requirements or agreements with importers. For domestic consumption, national standards, international standards, or standards of Islamic countries may be applied as appropriate. Organizations and individuals engaged in production and business are encouraged to develop and publish their own standards for Halal products and services where no corresponding national, international, regional, or Islamic country standards exist. These internal standards must align with the general principles and requirements of widely recognized international and regional Halal standards. The Decree stipulates that Halal products circulated in Vietnam must comply with declared standards and relevant legal regulations. Raw materials and additives must be Halal-compliant and free from prohibited substances; animal-derived ingredients must follow Halal slaughtering procedures. Production processes must ensure hygiene, prevent cross-contamination, and maintain Halal integrity throughout storage, transportation, and display, avoiding the use of non-compliant materials and preventing product confusion. Products must comply with regulations on labeling, Halal certification marks (if any), and measurement requirements for pre-packaged goods. Decree No. 127/2026/NĐ-CP defines Halal as a term originating from Arabic, meaning lawful or permissible, based on full compliance with Halal requirements specified in the applicable declared standards. A Halal product is one that has been assessed and certified to meet all Halal requirements under the applicable standards. A Halal service refers to any activity related to Halal products, including trading, transportation, storage, packaging, handling, display, and other related activities. Source: Bao Cong Thuong

Despite possessing a rare source of high-quality cocoa, Vietnam continues to face a chocolate trade deficit, with imported products accounting for up to 60% of the domestic retail market. This paradox highlights the urgent need to promote deep processing, enhance value addition from cocoa to chocolate, and move towards building a sustainable value chain for Vietnam’s cocoa sector. On April 3, 2026, the Forestry and Agriculture Policy Research Network, in collaboration with the Sustainable Coffee Network, organized a webinar titled “Entrepreneurship journey in high-quality coffee and cocoa: Linking farmers for sustainable development.” The event attracted significant interest from experts, businesses, and students from agricultural and forestry universities. FROM HIGH-QUALITY RAW MATERIALS TO THE CHALLENGE OF CHOCOLATE PRODUCTION Vietnam is gradually establishing its position on the global cocoa map, despite relatively modest output. Each year, the country exports approximately 2,000–3,500 tons of cocoa, significantly lower than Indonesia, Côte d’Ivoire, or Malaysia. However, Vietnamese cocoa beans are recognized by the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) as belonging to the rare category of fine-quality cocoa, with markets spanning Malaysia, Japan, Europe, and the United States. The chocolate confectionery market is expanding as younger generations gain greater exposure to Western culture. Chocolate has become a popular gift for loved ones, friends, and corporate clients on occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas, weddings, and New Year celebrations. Cocoa is the primary raw material for chocolate production. After grinding, cocoa beans are separated into cocoa butter and cocoa powder. White chocolate is made from cocoa butter combined with sugar and milk, while dark chocolate contains cocoa powder, with higher cocoa content resulting in a more bitter and less sweet taste. This aligns with current consumption trends in the premium segment. Once considered a secondary crop, cocoa is experiencing a notable revival in Vietnam. About a decade ago, many farmers in Đắk Lắk abandoned cocoa due to low prices and unstable markets. Today, thanks to stronger linkages between farmers and enterprises, cocoa cultivation has regained momentum. The purchase price of fermented dry cocoa beans ranges from VND 150,000 to VND 230,000 per kilogram, providing stable and relatively high income for growers. Beyond exporting raw materials, many cooperatives and domestic enterprises have invested in deep processing. “Made in Vietnam” chocolate products are now present in more than 20 countries. According to international experts, Vietnam’s small production scale is an advantage, enabling a focus on high quality and distinctive flavors suited to premium segments. In particular, fine flavor cocoa opens opportunities for exporting high-end chocolate to demanding markets such as Japan, Europe, and North America. However, Vietnam’s cocoa sector still faces multiple challenges. Despite strong potential, production and exports remain limited and not commensurate with existing advantages. The country continues to run a chocolate trade deficit, with imports accounting for 60% of the retail market and growing at 15–20% annually. The main reasons include the limited competitiveness of domestic products in terms of quality, design, and premium positioning. In addition, high production and storage costs for fresh chocolate lead many businesses to favor imports over local production. Addressing these challenges is essential for sustainable sector development and value enhancement. ELEVATING THE VIETNAMESE COCOA VALUE CHAIN Speaking at the webinar, Mr. Lê Văn Hoàng, CEO of Bazan Đắk Nông Coffee Company Limited, shared that the company began engaging with cocoa in 2017. At that time, farmers in the Central Highlands lacked standardized processing practices. In response, the company proactively conducted research, organized processing activities, and sought market outlets. By 2017–2018, high-quality cocoa product lines were gradually developed, enabling the company to access major clients. The company has since established a stable raw material area, collaborated with numerous farmers, and maintained continuous training programs. The key factor in strengthening farmer engagement is trust and clear economic benefits. The company organizes experiential training models, allowing farmers to directly verify production efficiency. Once successful, the company commits to purchasing at prices higher than the market. It also supports infrastructure such as pre-processing facilities and equipment, helping reduce labor and improve efficiency. Cooperative groups have been formed, with farmers participating in quality evaluation through tasting sessions and internal competitions. Products meeting standards are purchased at VND 15,000–20,000 per kilogram above market price, creating incentives to improve quality. Currently, the company collaborates with around five coffee cooperatives and over 100 farming households; for cocoa, it partners with six to seven cooperatives, forming a stable supply base. In the context of increasingly stringent global regulations, Vietnam’s cocoa and coffee sectors need to transition toward transparency, full-chain quality control, and stronger farmer linkages. This is a critical pathway to enhancing value and achieving sustainable development,” said Mr. Tô Xuân Phúc, expert at Forest Trends. In addition to serving the domestic market, the company’s chocolate products have reached Japan and the United States. The company previously operated a retail outlet in Osaka and continues distribution activities. Its two core product lines are coffee and cocoa, with cocoa processed into chocolate. Notably, each production batch is accompanied by a detailed “profile” documenting origin, processes, and quality, ensuring full traceability. According to Mr. Hoàng, raw material areas and primary processing are decisive factors for the cocoa industry. The number of enterprises investing systematically remains limited, creating opportunities for pioneering players. The company is currently developing over 100 hectares of cocoa and experimenting with high-quality product lines for international competitions. Mr. Tô Xuân Phúc added that the global chocolate market reached approximately USD 130.72 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 172.89 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth rate of 4.17%. Segments such as organic, vegan, and sugar-free chocolate are expanding rapidly. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s cocoa production is only around 6,000 tons per year but of high quality, offering opportunities for businesses to enter the premium segment. Source: VNECONOMY

In just over a decade, passion fruit (also known as granadilla) has transformed from a little-known fruit into one of Vietnam's top export items, earning hundreds of millions of dollars. Can passion fruit continue to evolve into a billion-dollar commodity for our country's agricultural sector in the near future? Rapid growth and emerging challenges The nationwide passion fruit cultivation area currently reaches 12,600 hectares with an output exceeding 178,500 tons, placing it among the group of 18 fruit types with an annual production of over 100,000 tons. The Central Highlands serves as the country's passion fruit capital, accounting for 86.4% of the area and 92.5% of the output in 2024, with Gia Lai leading the way. In 2025 alone, Gia Lai's passion fruit area is estimated at approximately 5,650 hectares with an output of around 80,000 to 100,000 tons, affirming the province's central role in this industry's value chain. To date, Gia Lai has been granted 48 growing area codes covering over 1,150 hectares and 6 packaging facilities dedicated to export. According to Mr. Doan Ngoc Co, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Gia Lai Province, the official export of Vietnamese passion fruit to China since July 2022 has opened up massive opportunities and created strong momentum for the industry. With market doors wide open, the income and profits of farmers, cooperatives, and enterprises within the value chain have increased significantly. In Gia Lai, several companies such as Nafoods Central Highlands Joint Stock Company and Dong Giao Food Export Joint Stock Company (DOVECO) have partnered with cooperatives and farmers to establish closed production-processing-consumption chains. Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc, Deputy Director of the Plant Protection Institute under the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences, stated: Passion fruit is currently one of the fastest-growing fruit trees, with an area of 12,600 hectares and an average annual output of about 160,000 tons, placing Vietnam among the top 10 major passion fruit suppliers globally. Passion fruit trees in Vietnam possess many advantages regarding terrain, soil, and climate conditions; specifically, when cultivated in the Central Highlands and other regions, the trees have a short growth cycle (4-5 months) and achieve high yields. The consumption market is also expansive with diverse demands (over 80% are processed products and fresh fruit). Over the past 10 years, passion fruit has developed by leaps and bounds; Vietnamese passion fruit exports grew from 20 million USD in 2015 to 222.5 million USD in 2023; in 2025, export turnover reached 220-240 million USD. Agricultural experts believe that passion fruit holds many advantages and the potential to become a billion-dollar export crop for Vietnam. However, the development of the passion fruit industry is currently facing numerous challenges, such as increasingly complex climate change; many cultivation areas remain fragmented and disjointed; many households still plant spontaneously in areas with unsuitable soil and irrigation conditions; and seed quality management is not yet truly robust. Meanwhile, major markets such as the European Union (EU), the US, Japan, and China are imposing stricter requirements on technical standards, quality, and traceability. Passion fruit is a crop sensitive to many types of pests and diseases, particularly viral diseases, which are becoming the greatest challenge to sustainable production. Vietnam has currently recorded six types of viruses affecting the growth and development of the trees, not to mention diseases caused by fungi and bacteria (brown spot, anthracnose, collar rot) along with various sucking insects, mites, and fruit flies, which reduce yield and quality while increasing the risk of field transmission. Building passion fruit value chains To promote the sustainable development of the passion fruit industry, according to Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc, it is crucial to apply integrated farming measures such as field sanitation, soil treatment, enhancing soil health with organic and microbial fertilizers, and hardening seedlings in isolated net houses before planting to improve current productivity and quality. Along with this is the establishment of linkages between farmers, cooperatives, and enterprises for consumption because, according to current trends, importers are setting very stringent food safety requirements. The supply chain must have a complete and transparent traceability system. Enterprises wishing to export must obtain international certifications such as HACCP, ISO, BRC, Halal, and GlobalGAP, while also meeting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements—a set of standards evaluating sustainable development and corporate impact on labor, environment, and governance. Mr. Ho Hai Quan, Director of Nafoods Central Highlands Joint Stock Company, noted that the global passion fruit market is changing rapidly, presenting both opportunities and challenges for Vietnamese producers and businesses. Current consumer trends lean heavily toward natural drinks with minimal chemical processing, prioritizing organic and nutrient-rich, low-sugar, health-conscious products, creating conditions for passion fruit products to expand their market share. Therefore, passion fruit growers need to utilize biological measures, further enhance product quality, and apply and comply with production standards such as VietGAP (Vietnamese Good Agricultural Practices) and GlobalGAP (Global Good Agricultural Practices) to ensure hygiene and food safety. Source: VTV.vn