Untangling durian export bottlenecks: Businesses must work alongside farmers

In recent months, durian exports to China have faced increasing pressure as the importing market strengthens controls on traceability, food safety, and quarantine procedures. Many shipments have been delayed, businesses are struggling to adapt, and farmers are worried about unstable output.

To discuss these challenges, VAN News had an interview with Phan Thi Thu Hien, Director of the Post-Import Plant Quarantine Center II under the Plant Production and Protection Department.

Understanding “Decree 280” the right way to avoid export disruptions

Dear madam, many businesses and farmers say that China’s stricter controls under “Decree 280” have complicated durian exports. From your perspective, how should we understand this regulation?

China’s primary objective in implementing regulations such as “Decree 280” is to tighten traceability and risk management for imported agricultural products. Therefore, farmers and businesses should understand that this is not an unusual trade barrier but an inevitable trend in international commerce.

The key is to clearly understand import market requirements and adjust production plans accordingly. The core requirement is ensuring food safety in cultivation, controlling residues, and meeting phytosanitary standards demanded by importing countries.

Traceability must be implemented throughout the entire chain, from inputs and cultivation practices to harvesting, preliminary processing, and packaging. All records must be clearly documented and transparent to allow full traceability when needed.

Particularly for packaging facilities and exporters, what is the most important requirement at the moment?

Controlling the origin of raw materials is the top priority. Inputs must come from approved planting area codes recognized by importing countries.

When materials enter packaging facilities, businesses must comply with one-way processing systems to minimize the risk of pest contamination during handling. This is a highly important technical requirement.

Post-harvest treatment also requires particular attention. If chemicals are used, they must be approved in both Vietnam and the importing country. Arbitrary use is unacceptable because a single violating shipment can damage the reputation of the entire industry.

After products are completed, businesses must ensure packaging standards as well as labeling requirements, and keep records to support traceability when needed.

The Plant Production and Protection Department has already issued detailed guidance for businesses on technical criteria, conditions, and registration procedures to meet China’s requirements. Authorities will continue supporting businesses in completing documentation and coordinating with Chinese counterparts for approval.

Many argue that businesses and farmers have to face mounting pressure due to increasingly strict testing standards. What is your take on this matter?

In reality, testing laboratories now operate according to international standards, with transparent sampling and analysis procedures. Therefore, there is no need for excessive concern or assumptions about unfair treatment.

The biggest challenge lies in the fact that Viet Nam’s production processes have historically been fragmented, small-scale, and inconsistent. As markets raise standards, producers must adapt.

A common knowledge about Viet Nam’s durian industry is that many export shipments are collected from multiple growers. Each orchard may apply different cultivation practices, hence difficulties in maintaining quality consistency.

Therefore, sustainable exports require individual farmers to monitor and manage their own production processes. From fertilizers and pesticides to cultivation methods, everything must follow proper procedures and be documented in detail. If farmers continue relying on old habits, stricter market controls will lead to more risks.

Markets cannot be maintained through spontaneous production

Dear ma’am, what can be considered the fundamental solution to help the durian industry overcome current challenges?

In my opinion, the key lies in building strong linkages between businesses and farmers. Businesses cannot simply wait until harvest season to purchase products. They need to participate right from the start of the production cycle.

Companies should support growers by providing production guidance, controlling input materials, offering technical assistance, and ensuring stable purchasing commitments. When farmers see reliable outputs and good profits, they will be more willing to follow proper procedures.

Conversely, pursuing short-term profits makes long-term market sustainability difficult. In reality, many farmers still see only immediate benefits without considering a broader vision: the industry's reputation. Just a few violating shipments can affect the image of Vietnamese durian as a whole.

China remains a very large market for Vietnamese durian. However, it is rapidly transitioning from a relatively lenient importer to one operating under international standards. This means the durian sector must shift from spontaneous production toward professional, transparent, and accountable supply chains.

As competition intensifies, failure to strengthen raw material zones, improve product quality, and tighten traceability systems could lead to market losses. The most important factor remains a genuine partnership between businesses and farmers. Strong linkages will improve quality control and support stable, long-term development of the durian industry.

Thank you, ma’am!