The Import-Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade said February maintained strong momentum following a record 2025, supported by recovering demand in China, the United States, the European Union and Japan.
Upgraded logistics infrastructure and more efficient transport routes have shortened delivery times and reduced costs, improving competitiveness. Authorities also pointed to a shift towards GlobalGAP-compliant farming, enabling deeper access to international retail supply chains.
Customs data showed exports reached USD 230.88 million in the first half of February alone, up 53 per cent from the same period last year.
A notable structural change has been a move away from traditional fresh produce towards higher value-added processed products.
In January, pistachios unexpectedly became the top export item, generating USD 137.92 million and accounting for 21.4 per cent of total fruit and vegetable export value, a 413.4 per cent surge from January 2025.
Durian remained a strategic growth driver. Expanded approved growing areas and the signing of a protocol allowing frozen durian exports to China have bolstered shipments.
Durian exports reached USD 117.22 million in January. Although down 44 per cent from December 2025 due to seasonal factors, the figure jumped 274.8 per cent year on year.
The ministry noted Vietnam’s competitive advantage lies in its off-season durian harvest from November to March, when rivals such as Thailand and Malaysia are not yet at peak output.
Other January contributors included coconut exports of USD 53.9 million, up 32.9 per cent, and jackfruit at USD 33.6 million, up 27.3 per cent. Dragon fruit was a rare decliner, falling 17 per cent to USD 48.5 million.
Analysts forecast that first-quarter exports of durian and other key produce could soon exceed USD 1 billion if customs clearance at northern border gates remains smooth.
However, authorities urged exporters to strictly comply with updated phytosanitary and pesticide residue regulations, particularly in demanding markets such as the EU and China, to safeguard gains and sustain growth.