According to the customs authority, export turnover in March reached about USD 532.2 million, up 51.6 per cent from the previous month and 11.5 per cent year on year. In the first three months, total exports hit USD 1.53 billion, a rise of 31.4 per cent, signalling a clear recovery and market expansion.
China remained the main growth driver, with first quarter exports reaching nearly USD 778.8 million, up almost 50 per cent and accounting for more than half of the country’s total fruit and vegetable exports.
Other markets also posted steady gains. Exports to the United States rose more than 16 per cent, South Korea increased over 6 per cent and Japan climbed more than 7 per cent. Meanwhile, several European and Southeast Asian markets saw sharper growth, including the Netherlands up more than 50 per cent, Malaysia over 80 per cent and Germany above 80 per cent.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade said the trend reflects effective market diversification. In addition to maintaining traditional markets, Vietnamese exporters have leveraged free trade agreements to expand into more demanding destinations.
Demand for tropical fruits remains strong, particularly for key products such as durian, mango, banana and dragon fruit. The peak harvest season in March also contributed to the surge in export value. Meanwhile, export protocols with China have been implemented more consistently, helping ease customs clearance and reduce previous congestion.
However, stricter standards are becoming increasingly significant. Authorities noted that controls on pesticide residues, planting area codes and traceability are now essential to sustaining growth. Not only high standard markets such as Europe and the United States, but also China, are tightening technical requirements, forcing exporters to upgrade their entire production chains.
Looking ahead to the second quarter, officials expect continued positive growth as protocols for fresh and frozen fruit exports are implemented more effectively, especially as seasonal products such as lychee, mango and durian enter peak harvest.
Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said the sector still has strong growth potential if businesses capitalise on seasonal advantages and maintain consistent quality. However, future growth is likely to be more selective, depending less on volume and more on the ability to meet standards. Companies investing in raw material areas, traceability and deep processing will have a clear competitive edge.
