With China's auramine O testing mandate impacting exports, durian prices at the farm gate in Vietnam's Mekong Delta have dropped by 60-70% to $1.86 per kilogram. The highest quality, Grade A Ri 6 durian is priced at $2.45 per kilogram, while Grade B sells for $1.86. Grade A and B Monthong varieties are being sold for $3.95 and $3.15 per kilogram, respectively.
Thanh, a farmer in Tien Giang province, mentioned selling a third of his off-season harvest and plans to wait for a price recovery before selling the remaining stock. Thien, another grower in the same region, has already sold his harvest at the current low prices. He noted, "At these prices, farmers make very little profit since off-season harvests often yield 30-40% fewer fruits than in the main season."
Khuong, a trader in the delta, observed that exports have been slow to recover due to China's stringent import standards, including auramine O testing. This has resulted in customs clearance delays and a price drop. Many traders are retracting large purchase contracts with farmers, despite having paid deposits.
However, optimism remains as exporters are completing necessary tests at nine Vietnam-based centers recognized by China. Last year, fruit and vegetable exports hit a record $7.15 billion, a 27.6% increase from 2023. The Ministry of Industry and Trade's import-export department encourages collaboration among farmers, cooperatives, and businesses to improve quality and enhance the global presence of Vietnamese brands.
Source: VNExpress