Fresh Vietnamese durian allowed to export to India

According to a notice from the Embassy of India in Hanoi, the Government of India has issued the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) (Fifth Amendment) Order, 2026, under Notification No. S.O. 3828(E) dated July 9, 2026. The Order was published in the Gazette of India on July 13, 2026, and came into effect from the date of its publication.

Under the new regulations, India has added Viet Nam to the list of countries eligible to export fresh durian fruit, scientifically known as Durio zibethinus, for consumption in the Indian market. Notably, India does not require any additional phytosanitary declarations on the Phytosanitary Certificate, nor does it impose specific import conditions for this product.

India’s official opening of its market to Vietnamese durian is the result of a process of technical exchanges and coordination between the national plant protection authorities of the two countries, while also reflecting positive developments in agricultural and trade cooperation between Viet Nam and India.

With its large population, growing middle class, and increasing demand for high-quality imported agricultural and food products, India represents a promising market. Access to this market will provide Vietnamese enterprises with more opportunities to diversify export destinations, reduce reliance on traditional markets, and enhance the value and global standing of Vietnamese durian.

However, India remains a new market for Vietnamese durian. In the initial phase, consumption is expected to be concentrated mainly in major cities, premium retail systems, imported fruit stores, restaurants, hotels, and e-commerce channels. Businesses need to carefully study consumer preferences, purchasing power, product specifications, transportation methods, and distribution networks to develop appropriate market entry strategies.

The Plant Production and Protection Department will continue coordinating with Indian authorities, relevant agencies under the MAE and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnamese representative agencies in India, local authorities, and industry associations to guide businesses in implementing exports. The Department will also promptly discuss and address difficulties and challenges arising during the implementation process.

The opening of the Indian market to Vietnamese fresh durian is a positive signal; however, long-term success will depend on the ability to maintain product quality, comply with regulations, build product reputation, and develop sustainable consumer demand. This is not only an opportunity to expand export markets but also a requirement for Viet Nam to further professionalize its durian production, packaging, preservation, and export chains.