The Potential of the Chinese Market for Fruit Exports

One of the most attractive export destinations for Vietnamese companies has always been China. The prospect of exporting to China has never been more enticing due to the high consumer demand, the growing focus on product quality, and the advantageous terms of free trade agreements (FTAs). The main elements that assist Vietnamese companies in taking advantage of possibilities in the Chinese market will be explored in the article that follows.

1. Large Market Demand

According to Euromonitor data, China's average per capita fruit consumption has been rising quickly over time. It is predicted to be 78 kg per person annually in 2024 and to rise to 80 kg per person annually in 2025. With a population of over 1.4 billion, the demand for fruit in China is enormous. According to the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Products, and Animal By-products, China's fruit imports have steadily increased from 2022 to the present. In 2023, China imported 7.52 million tons of fruit, worth 16.85 billion USD, corresponding to an annual increase of 3% and 15%, respectively, compared to 2022. By October 2024, China had imported more than 5 billion USD of Vietnamese fruits. In addition, China’s economy is transitioning with rising living standards and growing consumer demand, particularly from the middle class. This presents a golden opportunity for Vietnamese businesses to supply products that meet this growing demand. The import of fruit by China is expected to rise significantly in 2025, creating more opportunities for fruit exporters to enter this vast market.

China’s market is a huge potential opportunity for fruit exports.

2. Focus on Quality

In recent years, Chinese consumers have become more focused on product quality, especially as imported products from abroad dominate the market. Chinese consumers have become more discerning in selecting products with superior quality, particularly food, agricultural products, and other consumer goods. The Chinese government promotes public health policies, including regulations on nutrition and diets. The population is encouraged to eat more fruits and vegetables with clear origins and guaranteed food safety standards: no pesticide residues, no harmful microorganisms, and certified quality. The proportion of goods imported subject to quality control standards has risen significantly, from 20-30% to 50-60%, and at some points, even reaching 80-90%. Therefore, Vietnamese businesses have the opportunity to supply high-quality products that meet the increasingly stringent food safety standards, product quality, and branding requirements.

Improving the quality of imported goods to serve the health of the people.

3. Signed FTAs: Support for Costs and Taxes

The RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) and ACFTA (ASEAN-China Free Trade Area) have helped reduce tariffs and export costs, creating favorable conditions for Vietnamese fruits. Vietnam is currently focusing on exporting popular fruits in China, such as durian and mangoes. The agreements that have been signed provide conditions that make these products more competitive with other sources. This is an important factor that helps Vietnamese businesses compete better with their international counterparts.

Costs related to procedures, taxes, and transportation are supported by regional trade agreements.

4. Changes in Chinese Businesses' Methods of Buying and Trading Goods

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how businesses in China buy and trade goods. Chinese companies no longer just rely on traditional channels but have strongly moved toward applying online shopping methods and collaborating with major e-commerce platforms. This opens up opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to participate in e-commerce platforms and directly reach Chinese consumers. Digital transformation and online trading methods also help businesses save costs and time and optimize the export process.

5. Vietnamese Consulting Firms Apply Technology to Support Exports

Another important factor helping Vietnamese businesses enter the Chinese market is the emergence of professional consulting firms with deep knowledge of the Chinese market. These companies can assist businesses in market research, identifying consumer trends, finding partners, developing suitable marketing strategies, and minimizing risks in transactions.

These firms are striving to help Vietnamese businesses grasp supportive policies and understand the restrictions on fruit imports. Additionally, the development of online payment systems has increased the need for tech companies to support the connection between sellers and buyers. Agri Sung is one such company.

The Chinese market always presents significant opportunities and challenges for Vietnamese businesses. However, with the signing of FTAs, changes in the way Chinese businesses trade, and strong support from professional consulting firms, the opportunities for exporting to China are wide open.

To fully capitalize on this potential, Vietnamese businesses need to focus on product quality, improve production processes, and apply technology in export strategies. Only then can Vietnamese businesses succeed in sustainably tapping into the potential of the Chinese market.