Vietnam's Durian Exports to China Plummet 80% This Month

Auramine O residue was found in Thai durian shipments in late 2024. Vietnam's durian fruit exports have plummeted 80% to 3,500 tonnes in the first half of February 2025, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. The decrease in export products has caused Vietnam's export revenue to drop 11.3% month-on-month and 5.2% year-on-year. The decline is primarily due to China's updated import and export inspection measures implemented in January. These changes followed the discovery of Auramine O (also known as Basic Yellow 2 or BY2) residues in Thai durian shipments. The new measures require residue testing for all shipments in accredited laboratories, causing significant delays at the border. While officials have urged Vietnamese exporters to improve quality control, many traders have yet to fully adapt. The Vietnamese government has instructed agencies and local authorities to implement stricter quality management, emphasizing compliant chemical use. The government is also negotiating with China to restore previous export regulations and has submitted six additional testing laboratories for approval by China to expedite inspections. Some exporters are seeking alternative markets or selling domestically.