Vietnamese Grapefruit Secures Export License to SK
Fresh Vietnamese grapefruit has officially been granted permission to enter the Korean market. Following in the footsteps of dragon fruit and mango, grapefruit became the third Vietnamese fruit exported to South Korea. With a population of 50 million, South Korea presents a promising opportunity for Vietnamese grapefruit producers.
Vietnam boasts over 100,000 hectares dedicated to grapefruit cultivation, yielding more than 900,000 tons annually. The Mekong Delta alone contributes approximately 32,000 hectares and 370,000 tons, marking it as a key production area. Notable varieties with strong export potential include green-skin grapefruit, Nam Roi grapefruit, and Tan Trieu grapefruit.
Successful Negotiations and Trade Promotion
After nearly two years of negotiations, Vietnamese grapefruit can now access the South Korean market. The Plant Protection Department advises stakeholders to thoroughly understand and adhere to South Korea’s plant quarantine requirements for fresh grapefruit. Prompt action in trade and export promotion activities is also recommended.
Mr. Pham Khac Tuyen, First Secretary and Head of the Trade Office at the Vietnamese Embassy in Korea, highlighted the market potential: “Annually, South Korea imports around $20 million worth of grapefruit globally. The U.S. contributes approximately $8 million, Israel $7.5 million, and South Africa about $4.5 million. While current volumes are limited, the potential for growth is substantial. Vietnam’s extensive cultivation areas and well-known varieties like green-skin and Nam Roi grapefruit are already familiar to Korean consumers through vibrant tourism and cultural exchanges.”
Expanding International Reach
The Plant Protection Department views this achievement as a significant milestone, paving the way for Vietnamese agricultural products to reach international markets. Prior to South Korea, countries like the United States and New Zealand had also approved Vietnamese fresh grapefruit. Currently, Vietnamese grapefruit is exported to 13 countries and territories, with forecasts suggesting an increase by 2025, potentially including the Australian market. Alongside durian, grapefruit continues to be a high-value export product.
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Source: Vietnam Insider