Vietnam’s Durian Exports to China Surge 500% Despite Off-Season

Vietnam’s durian exports posted remarkable growth in early 2026, even during the off-season when supply is typically limited. According to preliminary data from Vietnam’s Customs Department, durian export turnover reached $117.22 million in January 2026, up 274.8% year-on-year.China remained the dominant market, accounting for $108.9 million, or nearly 93% of Vietnam’s total durian exports during the month. Although exports to China fell 45% compared with December due to seasonal factors, they still surged almost 505% compared with January 2025.

Other markets also recorded strong growth. Exports to the United States reached $3.55 million, up 529%. Shipments to South Korea increased nearly 498%, while Hong Kong rose 340% and Malaysia grew 358%. Smaller markets such as Taiwan also posted strong increases due to a low comparison base. Vietnamese durian currently benefits from a seasonal supply advantage, allowing prices to remain high. Grade-A Ri6 durian is priced at around VND105,000-110,000 per kilogram, while Thai varieties range between VND165,000 and VND170,000 per kilogram. Industry insiders expect the off-season advantage to last until late April.Several listed Vietnamese companies are expanding their presence in the durian sector. Hoang Anh Gia Lai Group has developed approximately 2,000 hectares of durian plantations, mainly in Laos. The company harvested its first crop in 2024 with an output of around 2,000 tons, generating roughly VND200 billion in revenue, mostly from exports to China.

Dak Lak Rubber Investment Corporation also entered the durian sector through a high-tech agriculture project launched in 2018. The company harvested its first crop in 2024 from 69 hectares, producing approximately 400 tons.A major turning point for the industry came in August 2024, when China officially approved imports of frozen durian from Vietnam under a bilateral protocol. This policy significantly expanded export opportunities for Vietnamese producers and processors. Companies such as BIG Invest Group have moved quickly to capitalize on the opportunity by establishing agricultural subsidiaries and strengthening partnerships with exporters. The company works with farmers and traders in southern Vietnam to secure durian supplies for export to China.With demand from China continuing to grow rapidly, Vietnam’s durian industry is expected to remain one of the country’s most dynamic agricultural export sectors in the coming years.