Overview
Durian is the fastest-growing fruit in Vietnam in recent years, and is widely loved across Southeast Asia as the 'king of fruits'. Vietnam's annual output reaches about 1 million tonnes, and since official exports to China began in 2022, cultivation area and output have expanded rapidly. The main varieties are Monthong and Ri6.
Growing regions and areas
The main durian producing areas are Dak Lak province、Lam Dong province in the Central Highlands, and Dong Nai province、Tien Giang province in the southern region. The national durian cultivation area is about 150,000 hectares, with the Central Highlands accounting for about 40%. Volcanic soil and moderate rainfall suit durian cultivation.
Cultivation methods and harvest season
The durian harvest peaks from May to August. The first fruiting comes five to six years after planting, and full yields are reached after more than ten years. One tree can yield 100 to 200 fruits a year. Because the skill of judging the timing of ripeness determines quality, the knowledge of experienced farmers is important. In recent years, the introduction of quality traceability through cultivation-code management has been advancing.
Exports and market trends
Triggered by the start of official exports to China in 2022, Vietnam's durian export value surged, reaching about US$2.5 billion in 2023. China accounts for more than 90% of export destinations. Exports of frozen durian are also expanding, and market diversification is a challenge. Vietnam is establishing its position as the world's second-largest durian exporter after Thailand.
Connections with Japan
At present, fresh imports of Vietnamese durian to Japan are not permitted. Plant quarantine negotiations are underway, but dealing with fruit flies is a challenge. Frozen durian can be imported without restriction and is sold at Asian grocery stores and online shops in Japan. The future lifting of the ban on fresh imports is anticipated.
