Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export industry continued to show strong resilience and positive growth in the first five months of 2026 despite ongoing volatility in global agricultural trade. 

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, export turnover reached approximately USD 2.69 billion, up 16.8% year-on-year. In May alone, export value reached USD 630 million, reflecting stable international demand and improving competitiveness.

The latest results highlight the sector’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions, rising logistics costs, and increasingly strict import regulations. More importantly, they demonstrate Vietnam’s ongoing transition from volume-based production toward higher-value agricultural development supported by stronger quality standards, traceability systems, and long-term sustainability.

As global consumers continue prioritizing food safety, transparency, and product quality, Vietnam is increasingly positioning itself as a reliable sourcing destination for international buyers.

Market expansion drives export growth

Market diversification remains one of the strongest growth drivers behind Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export performance. China continued to dominate as Vietnam’s largest export destination, accounting for 49.6% of total export turnover during the first five months of 2026. Export value to China increased by 31.4% compared with the same period last year, supported by stronger bilateral agricultural cooperation and growing demand.

At the same time, exports to the United States maintained solid momentum, accounting for 8.7% of total value and recording growth of 16%. South Korea contributed 5.4% and increased by 9.1%. Among the top export destinations, Cambodia emerged as one of the most impressive growth markets, with export value increasing 3.6 times year-on-year.

Expanding into more markets not only reduces dependence on individual destinations but also strengthens supply chain flexibility and supports long-term export stability. For Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export sector, diversification is increasingly becoming a strategic necessity rather than simply a growth opportunity.

Product diversification drives growth 

Beyond market expansion, growth is also being driven by changes in the export product structure. Durian remained the leading contributor to export growth during the first five months of the year. Export value increased by 59.7%, supported by favorable off-season harvesting conditions and improved market access through additional approved growing area codes and frozen durian export protocols.

Several traditional fruit categories also maintained stable export performance. Dragon fruit, jackfruit, and passion fruit continued recording steady demand across key international markets.

This development reflects a broader shift toward a more diversified export portfolio and greater emphasis on value-added products. Instead of relying heavily on a small number of commodities, the industry is gradually building stronger resilience through product expansion and processing capabilities. The transition toward higher-value exports is expected to improve margins, increase competitiveness, and reduce vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations.

Outlook for Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export

Looking ahead, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export industry is expected to maintain positive momentum as global demand continues evolving. Future growth will likely come from wider market access, stronger traceability systems, expanded processing capacity, and improved logistics infrastructure.

Local governments continue investing in infrastructure upgrades, agricultural technology, and large-scale production planning to support export ambitions. In Hanoi, authorities aim for 50–70% of fruit-growing areas to achieve quality certification by 2030.

At the national level, efforts are also being accelerated to approve export-oriented growing regions and expand technical support for farmers and businesses. The strong performance recorded in the first five months of 2026 reflects more than export growth alone. It signals a broader transformation in production strategy, quality management, and international competitiveness.

With continued investment and standardized development, Vietnam is well positioned to increase its global market share and strengthen the long-term value of its fruit and vegetable export industry.

Source: Vietnam Economic & Financial Review

19/6/2026