Vietnam Introduces First-Ever Food Safety Control Process for Fresh Durian Exports

For the first time, fresh durian exports from Vietnam will be governed by a dedicated food safety control mechanism, covering every stage from cultivation to packaging and transportation.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has officially issued Decision No. 3015 outlining the “Food Safety Control Process for Fresh Durian for Export”—marking the first time a specific fruit has been assigned its own comprehensive export safety protocol.

A Full-Chain Control Mechanism

This newly implemented process standardizes food safety requirements across the entire fresh durian supply chain, including:

• Cultivation and harvesting

• Transportation and storage

• Sorting, packaging, and export procedures

All stages will be subject to strict monitoring, registration, evaluation, and certification. Testing laboratories will be responsible for analyzing samples to support certification, while competent authorities will supervise and certify food safety compliance for each shipment.

Local agencies, authorized by provincial leaders, will carry out on-site inspections of production areas, packaging facilities, and transport systems. They will also conduct state-level food safety checks for plant-based exports, ensuring compliance with the requirements of international markets.

Strict Traceability and Origin Requirements

Durian intended for export must originate from approved and coded growing areas and facilities that are registered and monitored by Vietnamese authorities—and recognized by the importing country, where required. The entire logistics process, from classification to packaging, must adhere to national and international standards, with full labeling from certified facilities.

In terms of food safety, exported durian must meet:

• Heavy metal residue limits set by the Ministry of Health

• Pesticide residue regulations in accordance with Circular No. 50

• Any additional quality requirements imposed by the destination market

Durian Drives Fruit Export Growth

According to the General Department of Customs, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports in June reached USD 807 million—a surge of more than 30% month-over-month and 20% year-over-year. This marks the first month in 2025 where the sector has reversed its five-month decline.

Durian stood out as the key driver, contributing USD 360 million in June alone—a 70% increase over May. However, over the first half of the year, total durian exports fell to USD 825 million, reflecting a 37% decrease compared to the same period last year.

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Source: Vietnam Insider