Vietnam ranks second in fruit and vegetable exports to China

Data released by China Customs shows that in 2023, exports of vegetables, tubers, fruits and processed products from countries to this market reached $ 24.4 billion. In particular, Thailand continues to lead with a turnover of 8.6 billion USD, accounting for 36% of the market share. Compared to the same period in 2022, Thailand's market share decreased by nearly 2%.

The second position belongs to Vietnam with a turnover of $ 3.4 billion. Vietnam's market share in the Chinese market nearly doubles from 8% in 2022 to 14% in 2023. Vietnam emerged as a phenomenon and surpassed Chile (the country ranked second in fruit and vegetable export turnover to China for many consecutive years).

"The reason why Vietnam surpassed Chile is due to the sudden increase in durian export turnover. In addition, last year China also increased its imports of processed fruits and vegetables from Vietnam, causing the export turnover of this product to skyrocket", Mr Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Vegetable and Fruit Association, explained.

Currently, Vietnam is a "serious" opponent that Chile and Thailand are wary of. This year, when frozen durian, avocado, and coconut from Vietnam are officially exported to this market, the turnover is forecast to increase sharply and the market share among countries exporting to China continues to be divided.

In addition to having abundant supply, Vietnam has an advantage over the above two countries in terms of cost and shipping time. Vietnam's climate is also more favourable than the above countries.

To make exports more favourable, Mr Nguyen believes that producers and purchasing businesses need to connect more closely to improve product quality. For processed goods, they should improve designs and meet the standards of the importing country.