Since the 6th day of Tet, durian purchasing points in the Mekong Delta simultaneously resumed operations. A surge in export orders, coupled with limited off-season supply, has pushed prices to their highest level in three years.

At the farm gate, Monthong – the primary variety for export – grade A (2.7 locules, 1.9-5 kg) is being purchased by traders for 147,000-155,000 VND per kg. This represents more than double the 40,000-70,000 VND recorded during the same period last year. Traders are buying grade B at 126,000-127,000 VND per kg. For Ri 6, grade A is being purchased at 80,000-87,000 VND, while grade B is around 70,000 VND per kg.

Mr. Thanh, a trader in Tien Giang (now part of Dong Thap), stated that he initially planned to collect about 40 tons of Monthong for partners. However, he only managed to gather approximately 20 tons in the first two days. He attributed this to a 30-40% reduction in off-season supply. "Import demand rebounded after the Tet holiday, but the quantity meeting export standards is not high, causing prices to rise quickly," he explained.

Beyond the China market, which consumes most of Vietnam's durian output, partners in Japan, Canada, and the US have also increased their orders compared to late last year. Nevertheless, these markets impose strict requirements regarding growing area codes, traceability, and pesticide residue control. Businesses report that batches meeting these standards are often purchased at higher prices than the general market rate.

Despite the sharp price increase, the actual benefits for farmers are not entirely proportional. Some growers in Can Tho reported that the costs for off-season flowering treatment, fertilizers, and labor have increased by 10-20% compared to last year. Many households noted that off-season yields are inherently not large, and not all growing areas have official codes or direct links with export businesses. Consequently, farmers often have to sell through intermediaries at prices lower than those for certified produce.

Off-season durian at a farm in Can Tho. Photo: Manh Khuong

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, durian export turnover in 2025 reached approximately 3,86 billion USD, a 20% increase over the previous year and accounting for nearly half of the country's total fruit and vegetable export value. The agency assessed that durian continues to be a main driver for growth in the fruit sector following the signing of official export protocols and market expansion.

Export businesses anticipate that if the current momentum of increasing orders is maintained and no new technical barriers emerge, this year's durian export turnover could exceed 4 billion USD. However, businesses believe this scenario largely depends on their ability to meet the increasingly stringent regulations from the China market, the primary consumer.

Recently, China issued regulations requiring many imported agricultural products to have confirmation letters from competent authorities and enterprise registration, tightening management. This regulation compels businesses and growing areas to complete legal documentation, enhance quality control standards, and strictly adhere to production processes.

Experts suggest that if businesses and farmers effectively meet technical requirements and control residues, Vietnamese durian retains an advantage due to its large output and flexible harvest season. However, specialists also noted that as the main harvest season begins, increased supply could lead to domestic price adjustments. Therefore, the prospect of exceeding the 4 billion USD mark depends not only on market demand but also on the entire industry chain's capacity for policy adaptation and sustainable production organization.

Thi Ha