New Durian Regulations Cause Fruit and Vegetable Exports to Plummet

Vietnam's fresh fruit and vegetable exports are facing difficulties. Export turnover in the first two months of the year has sharply declined to an estimated 677 million USD, a 17% decrease. Durian, a key agricultural product, experienced an 80% drop in exports by mid-February. Stricter quarantine and food safety regulations in importing countries, particularly China, are the primary cause. China's implementation of 100% inspection and requirements for 'yellow O' certification have significantly impacted durian exports, forcing many businesses to halt operations. Other markets like Taiwan and the European Union have also heightened import restrictions, further complicating global trade for Vietnamese agricultural exporters. The extended Lunar New Year holiday further exacerbated the situation, causing logistical disruptions and contributing to the decline.