Overview
Passion fruit is a fruit whose cultivation area is expanding rapidly in Vietnam's Central Highlands, with an annual output of about 200,000 tonnes. In Vietnamese it is called 'chanh day', characterized by a strong acidity and a distinctive aroma. Demand as a juice ingredient is rising at home and abroad, making it one of the fastest-growing fruits in recent years.
Growing regions and areas
The main passion fruit producing area is Gia Lai province and Lam Dong province The cool climate of the Central Highlands at an altitude of 600 to 1,200 m suits passion fruit cultivation. In recent years the cultivation area has expanded rapidly, and in Gia Lai Province cultivation gardens spread over more than about 10,000 hectares.
Cultivation methods and harvest season
Passion fruit can be harvested year-round, but the peak runs from May to October. A perennial vine, it is commonly grown on trellises. The first harvest comes eight to ten months after planting, and each plant produces 20 to 30 kg of fruit a year. Easy to grow and requiring little initial investment, it is a popular crop among farmers in the Central Highlands.
Exports and market trends
Passion fruit is mainly exported to China and the EU as concentrated juice. Exports of frozen pulp are also increasing. In the domestic market, demand is high as an ingredient for fresh juice and smoothies, and it is widely used in cafes and restaurants. Large fluctuations in farm prices are a challenge.
Connections with Japan
At present, fresh imports of Vietnamese passion fruit to Japan are not common. However, passion fruit concentrate and frozen pulp are imported by Japanese beverage makers and the confectionery industry. Japan's passion fruit market is on a growth trend, and future import expansion is expected.
