The story of dragon fruit Vietnam export represents one of the most remarkable transformations in global horticulture. Over the past two decades, Vietnam has evolved from a modest producer into the world’s largest exporter of dragon fruit, delivering to markets spanning Asia, Europe, and North America. The 2024–25 season marks another milestone, as Vietnam dragon fruit exporters adapt to changing market dynamics, new trade regulations, and shifting consumer preferences.

According to the latest Vietnam export data and Vietnam shipment data, the total export value of dragon fruit from Vietnam reached USD 600 million in 2024, a 1% dip from the previous year. Despite this slight decline, the country continues to dominate global supply chains, accounting for the majority of global dragon fruit exports.

Dragon Fruit in Vietnam: Production and Supply Chain

Dragon fruit Vietnam has become the nation’s signature fruit, overtaking other high-value crops like durian and mango. The fruit is grown across roughly 55,000 hectares, primarily in three provinces:

• Binh Thuan Province – Known as the “Dragon Fruit Capital” of Vietnam, contributing about 60% of total planted area.

• Long An Province – Specializes in both red-fleshed and white-fleshed varieties.

• Tien Giang Province – Focuses on certified and modernized plantations that meet international standards.

Together, these provinces produce over 1 million tons of dragon fruit each year, with 80–85% of total output destined for export markets. This heavy export dependence highlights the importance of dragon fruit Vietnam export performance to rural livelihoods and the national economy.

Major Export Destinations: Where Vietnam’s Dragon Fruit Goes

Vietnam exports dragon fruit to more than 50 countries worldwide, but a handful dominate the market share. Based on Vietnam shipment data for 2024–25, the top destinations include:

1. China – USD 480 million (80%)

2. India – USD 30 million (5%)

3. United States – USD 24 million (4%)

4. United Kingdom – USD 18 million (3%)

5. Germany – USD 12 million (2%)

6. UAE – USD 9 million (1.5%)

7. South Korea – USD 7 million (1.2%)

8. Australia – USD 6 million (1%)

9. Netherlands – USD 5 million (0.8%)

10. New Zealand – USD 4 million (0.5%)

China remains the largest importer of Vietnam dragon fruit, accounting for the lion’s share of exports due to its strong consumer base and proximity. However, diversification toward India, the U.S., and Europe is now a strategic priority as exporters seek to reduce dependency on China.

Export Trends and Performance

Historically, dragon fruit Vietnam export peaked in 2018, when total export value reached USD 1.3 billion. Since then, earnings have stabilized around USD 600–700 million annually, reflecting both market adjustments and global regulatory changes.

According to Vietnam customs data, in the first two months of 2025, dragon fruit exports totaled USD 93.8 million, representing 14.3% of total fruit and vegetable export value. This rebound helped dragon fruit regain its position as Vietnam’s top fruit export, surpassing durian.

At the regional level, Binh Thuan remains the powerhouse, with exports increasing 20.6% in value and 9.8% in volume in the first five months of 2025. Northern border provinces like Lang Son, Lao Cai, and Quang Ninh continue to facilitate overland trade with China, while seaport and air freight channels to Western markets expand steadily.

Dragon Fruit Vietnam Export: Market Diversification

While China dominates as a buyer, other markets are quickly gaining traction. India’s import volume rose by over 35% in 2024, and the United States saw a 100% year-on-year increase after Vietnam met new U.S. phytosanitary standards. Similarly, the UK and Germany recorded growth rates exceeding 200% due to rising demand for exotic fruits in Western supermarkets.

The Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia) has become a high-value destination for red-fleshed dragon fruit, while Australia and New Zealand offer premium prices for fruit meeting GlobalGAP certification standards. This expansion showcases how Vietnam exports are becoming more balanced and diversified, mitigating risks from overreliance on China.

Export Prices, Quality, and Certification

Farm-gate prices for dragon fruit Vietnam are volatile, reflecting seasonal supply fluctuations. In early 2025, prices ranged between VND 23,000–35,000/kg (USD 0.90–1.37) for premium fruit, while lower-grade varieties dropped to VND 10,000–15,000/kg.

To ensure consistent access to high-value markets, Vietnam has prioritized certification:

• 9,500+ hectares under VietGAP

• 450+ hectares under GlobalGAP

• 548 planting area codes and 260 packing facility codes

These certifications are essential for traceability, compliance, and price premiums in markets such as the EU, Japan, and the U.S.

Challenges Facing Vietnam Dragon Fruit Exporters

Despite impressive growth, the dragon fruit Vietnam export industry faces several hurdles:

1. Regulatory Barriers:
   China now requires chemical residue testing and stricter documentation, while the EU conducts heightened pesticide inspections. Non-compliance risks shipment rejections.

2. Price Instability:
   Oversupply during harvest peaks leads to falling farm-gate prices, discouraging investment and profitability.

3. Logistical Constraints:
   Border congestion and underdeveloped cold chain systems can delay shipments and impact quality.

4. Dependence on China:
   With roughly 80% of exports going to a single market, any policy or demand shift in China has ripple effects across the supply chain.

5. Climate Risks:
   Droughts and irregular rainfall patterns, particularly in Binh Thuan, threaten yields.

Opportunities and Growth Strategies

The future of Vietnam dragon fruit exports lies in diversification, value addition, and sustainable production:

• Market Diversification: Strengthen trade with India, Europe, and North America to reduce dependency on China.

• Value-Added Products: Develop processed dragon fruit items like dried snacks, juices, and powders to tap into health-conscious markets.

• Technology and Logistics: Invest in cold chain systems and modern packaging to maintain fruit quality for long-distance exports.

• Branding: Position dragon fruit Vietnam as a premium product through consistent quality, eco-certifications, and marketing that highlights sustainability.

• Sustainability: Adopt eco-friendly irrigation and pest control to align with international environmental standards.

Outlook for 2025 and Beyond

The Vietnam shipment data for early 2025 signals optimism. If diversification continues and infrastructure bottlenecks are resolved, dragon fruit Vietnam export earnings could surpass USD 800 million by year-end.

While exports to China may continue to decline due to domestic competition and strict regulations, Western markets—especially the U.S. and Europe—are expected to grow at double-digit rates. Emerging markets like India and the Middle East will also offer volume stability and price resilience.

Key Facts & Data Snapshot

• Cultivation area: 55,000 hectares

• Annual production: Over 1 million tons

• Export ratio: 80–85% of output

• Peak export year: 2018 (USD 1.3 billion)

• Export value 2024: USD 600 million

• Early 2025 exports: USD 93.8 million

• Farm-gate price: VND 23,000–35,000/kg

• Certification: 9,500 ha VietGAP, 450 ha GlobalGAP

Conclusion

In conclusion, dragon fruit Vietnam export remains the cornerstone of the country’s fruit industry and a symbol of its agricultural innovation. The sector stands at a turning point—balancing tradition with modernization, and dependence with diversification.

As Vietnam exports expand to new markets and evolve toward value-added products, the future looks promising. If exporters continue to invest in quality, certification, and logistics, Vietnam dragon fruit can sustain its global leadership and enhance rural prosperity.

The coming year will be decisive. Exporters who anticipate demand trends, meet global standards, and build brand value will shape the next chapter of Vietnam’s dragon fruit success story.