Viet Nam's durian exports surge 275% in January

According to preliminary statistics from the Viet Nam Customs Department, in January 2026, exports of all types of durian exceeded USD 117 million, marking a 275% increase compared to January 2025.

With this result, durian remained a bright spot in Viet Nam’s fruit and vegetable exports at the beginning of 2026, accounting for more than 18% of the total export value in January.

The expansion of registered durian-growing area codes and the Protocol allowing Viet Nam to export frozen durian to China have been the main drivers behind the strong growth in durian exports in the first month of the year.

As of January 2026, the number of approved durian-growing area codes and packing facilities in China had doubled compared to the same period last year, thereby facilitating smoother supply flows.

In addition, Viet Nam holds an advantage with its off-season durian harvest (from November of the previous year to March of the following year), while competitors such as Thailand and Malaysia have not yet entered their peak harvest season. This creates a competitive edge for Vietnamese durian exports in the international market in January.

The Import-Export Department (under the Ministry of Industry and Trade) noted that with the strong growth momentum in the first month of the year, durian exports in the first quarter of 2026 could soon reach USD 1 billion, provided that customs clearance at northern border gates remains smooth.

Besides durian, key fruits such as dragon fruit, bananas and mangoes have maintained stable exports to traditional markets including China and the ASEAN region. Meanwhile, fresh coconut, longan and various culinary herbs are increasing their export share thanks to expanded access to markets such as the United States, Japan and the EU.