The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development recently issued Decision 3015 on the "Food Safety Control Process for Fresh Durian Exports." This marks the first time a specific fruit has its own dedicated control mechanism, spanning from cultivation to export.

This process standardizes food safety requirements for fresh durian throughout the entire production chain, including growing, harvesting, transportation, storage, packaging, and export. Activities such as registration, appraisal, and food safety certification for each shipment are also strictly controlled.

Authorities will manage food safety conditions at facilities involved in the production chain and conduct appraisals and certifications for each shipment. Testing facilities will analyze samples to support the certification process.

Harvesting off-season durian in Cai Lay Town, Tien Giang. Photo: Hoang Nam

Harvesting off-season durian in Cai Lay Town, Tien Giang. Photo: Hoang Nam

Agencies authorized by provincial People's Committees will inspect and monitor food safety, production, packaging, and transportation in growing areas and facilities related to durian export. They will also conduct state-level food safety inspections for plant-based shipments as required by importing markets.

Products must be produced and harvested from facilities with assigned codes, monitored and recognized by the competent authorities of the importing country (if required). Storage, transportation, sorting, and packaging must also comply with regulations, with complete labeling from certified facilities.

Regarding quality, exported durian must meet heavy metal residue standards set by the Ministry of Health, pesticide residue standards according to Circular 50, and any specific requirements of the importing market.

According to Customs, fruit and vegetable export revenue in June reached 807 million USD, a more than 30% increase compared to the previous month and a more than 20% increase year-on-year. This is also the first month of the year that fruit and vegetable exports have returned to growth after five consecutive months of decline. Durian contributed approximately 360 million USD in June, a more than 70% increase compared to May. In the first 6 months, durian export revenue reached 825 million USD, a 37% decrease year-on-year.

Thi Ha