On May 15, Le Van Thiet, Deputy Director of the Plant Protection Department, expressed hopes to expand Vietnam's durian market to India, a country with a billion-plus population. Currently, China is the largest consumer of Vietnamese durian, but relying on a single market poses risks. Thus, opening the Indian market is a positive development. Vietnam has submitted the necessary application and is awaiting India's approval to begin exports.

Thiet noted that India has less stringent regulations than China and lower shipping costs, making it a promising market. However, negotiations will take time and effort.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, reported that durian exports reached USD 500 million in the first four months of 2024, a 30% increase from the same period in 2023, largely due to the Chinese market.

Forecasting China's durian demand, Dang Phuc Nguyen stated it could reach USD 3 billion, up from USD 2.1 billion spent on nearly 500,000 tons in 2023.

Ngo Tuong Vy, CEO of Chanh Thu Fruit Import-Export Group, emphasized that market expansion is crucial, but the key factor is maintaining high quality. She believes that with consistent quality, Vietnamese durian can attract many new markets.

Expanding to India offers significant opportunities for Vietnam's durian industry by reducing reliance on China, promoting sustainable development, and diversifying consumption sources for this vital agricultural product.