HCM CITY – Prices of fruits such as lychees, durians and rambutans have dropped sharply across Việt Nam due to low market demand.

Nguyễn Ngọc Nga, a vendor at Thị Nghè Market (HCM City), said although the lychee season was nearing its end, supplies remained abundant and prices hit their lowest levels in years.

Last year, lychees were sold for VNĐ60,000-70,000/kg, but now the price dropped to just only around VNĐ25,000/kg.

In Northern Việt Nam, Trù Hựu Commercial Service Cooperative in Bắc Ninh Province, said that despite a bumper harvest, lychee’s profits had dropped significantly. 

The basic-grade lychees at Lục Ngạn gardens were selling for VNĐ7,000-12,000/kg, while top-grade lychees fetched only VNĐ15,000-30,000/kg.

In HCM City, retail durian prices have fallen by 30-35 per cent year-on-year. Ri6 durians are selling for as low as VNĐ40,000-65,000/kg, while Thai varieties range from VNĐ65,000-80,000/kg, and the prices in the Mekong Delta are even lower. 

Other fruits in HCM City such as rambutans (VNĐ15,000-25,000/kg), 034 avocados (VNĐ20,000-25,000/kg) and king oranges (VNĐ5,000-7,000/kg) are also seeing sharp declines, causing concern among farmers.

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association said major fruits such as durians, lychees and rambutans had a good season, with lychee output estimated at over 300,000 tonnes. 

However, domestic demand was low and durian exports to China were not as good as expected, causing prices to decrease.

The association also said that from May to July, many fruits hit peak harvest at the same time. China remained the key buyer, accounting for over 90 per cent of Việt Nam’s durian exports, but export value so far this year was only 30–35 per cent of last year. - VNS