Collection hubs across the Mekong Delta resumed operations on February 23 following the Tet break, with farm-gate prices jumping sharply.

Market data shows that Monthong durian, the primary export variety, is being purchased at VND147,000- 155,000 per kilo for Grade A fruit, roughly double the price recorded during the same period last year. Grade B Monthong is sold for between VND126,000- 127,000 per kilo.

For the Ri 6 variety is fetching VND80,000–87,000 per kilo for Grade A and around VND70,000 for Grade B.

Industry insiders say the price spike reflects seasonal supply dynamics and export market factors.

Ha Nguyen Anh Thanh, director of R10Travel Company, explained that durian prices typically rise after the Lunar New Year as Vietnam is often the only major supplier during this period.

Furthermore, evolving tariff and tax transparency requirements have prompted exporters to factor in additional costs, contributing to higher quoted prices.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, pointed out that demand in China, Vietnam’s largest durian export market, tends to spike in early January each year, particularly around the full moon of the first lunar month and other early-year festivals.

At the same time, Vietnam is in its off-season for durian production, resulting in lower yields and higher prices. Competing suppliers such as Thailand and Malaysia have little to no export supply available at this time, giving Vietnamese durian a temporary competitive edge.

Technical issues that previously disrupted exports, including concerns over cadmium residues and the so-called “Auramine O” dye contamination, have largely been addressed, helping stabilise shipments.

However, Nguyen cautioned that these elevated prices are temporary. From March onward, as Vietnam enters its peak harvest season, supply is expected to increase sharply, leading to a significant price decline.

The year 2025 marks a milestone for Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable sector, with total export turnover reaching US$8.56 billion, up 19.8% year on year and the highest level on record.

Durian was the industry’s leading export product, contributing US$3.86 billion, or more than 45% of total export value.

Durian exports stabilize after testing disruption

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