Vietnam durian prices rise as China exports recover

Photo courtesy of VnExpress / Phan Hang

Vietnamese durian prices have rebounded as demand from China strengthens and a new customs policy speeds agricultural exports through border gates, offering relief to growers after sharp falls earlier this month.

Traders are now buying top-grade Monthong durians from orchards for VND75,000 to VND80,000 (US$2.90 to $3.10) per kilogram, an increase of 8% within one week.

Grade A Ri6 durians have also risen to between VND55,000 and VND58,000 per kilogram.

Prices recover from earlier falls

The improvement follows a difficult start to July, when prices were 20% to 30% lower than a year earlier. Monthong durians had been selling for VND46,000 to VND68,000 per kilogram, while Ri6 fetched VND28,000 to VND38,000.

A trader named Trung in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak said purchases were increasing to meet stronger demand. He said high-quality fruit was being bought as soon as it became available.

Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports were estimated at $4.76 billion during the first seven months of 2026, up 23% year-on-year. July shipments alone reached an estimated $1.06 billion, a rise of 38%.

China demand and faster customs clearance

Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said durian represented more than half of the country's fruit and vegetable exports and was the main driver of growth.

He said Vietnamese fruit had previously faced strong competition from Thailand. With Thailand's harvest season now over, Vietnam is effectively the only supplier in the market.

Exports have also benefited from a Department of Customs policy introduced last week. Agricultural shipments are now prioritised for same-day clearance at border gates, including outside normal working hours and during holidays.

The Central Highlands is entering its main durian season, which is expected to continue until September or October. Export volumes normally peak during this period.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

The reported figures are orchard purchasing prices, so foreign residents and visitors should not assume retail durian prices will move by the same amount or at the same speed.

For foreign businesses involved in farming, logistics, food processing or exports, the faster customs arrangements may help reduce delays for highly perishable produce. However, the rapid price changes also show how closely Vietnam's durian market remains tied to seasonal supply and demand from China.

22 July 2026