Harvest Dispute Spoils 200 Tons of Watermelons in Vietnam

Photo courtesy of VN Express

More than 200 tons of watermelons were left to rot in Vietnam's Central Highlands due to a disagreement over crop yields between growers and traders during the Tet holiday season. The melons, cultivated on 25 hectares in Ia Mo Commune, Gia Lai Province, were anticipated to produce around 1,250 tons, valued at VND8.5 billion ($336,000), under a December 2025 agreement.

Get today's headlines by email

The dispute arose when traders and growers clashed over promised versus actual yields. The agreement, signed by Lam Van Sau and traders led by Tran Thi Nhung, aimed for a yield of 2.5 tons per sao. However, traders later claimed the yield was only 500 kg per sao, proposing a pay-per-weight system at VND5,000 per kg, which Sau rejected, insisting on the original terms.

As the Tet holiday passed, the melons deteriorated in the fields, leaving both sides uncompromising. Local officials attempted mediation starting January 28, but traders failed to attend. Authorities advised legal action due to the financial and contractual complexities involved, as stated by Nguyen Tuan Anh, Ia Mo's vice chairman.

Moving forward, the case may head to court to resolve the financial dispute and contractual disagreements. Both parties face potential losses, emphasizing the importance of accurate projections and agreements in agricultural ventures, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• A dispute over watermelon yield left 200 tons to spoil.

• Mediation attempts failed; a court case may proceed.

• Financial losses highlight the need for clear agreements.

Join the discussion?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 26 Feb 2026