Vietnam is taking significant strides to bolster its grapefruit production and export capabilities, particularly focusing on exports to the European Union. Recent improvements, attributed to the application of scientific and technological advancements, have led to higher quality fruits coming from regions like Tan Lac and Long Son.
Since 2023, there has been notable participation from all levels of Vietnam's political system, local cooperatives, and farmers, culminating in improved grapefruit quality. According to Deputy Chairman Bui Quoc Huan, "The production of grapefruit and other citrus fruits has improved greatly due to the active application of science and technology." This collaborative effort reflects the commitment of various sectors to uplift the agricultural standard.
With 2024 on the horizon, regional authorities are gearing up to review potential areas for building and developing the production and exploitation chain for grapefruit products. A close assessment is being conducted across 48 standard production areas (MSVTs) with approximately 332.48 hectares identified for compliance, extending across Long Son, Yen Thuy, Tan Lac, and Kim Boi provinces, as well as Hoa Binh city.
By February 2025, the grapefruit and citrus production figures are expected to reach substantial numbers. Overall, grapefruit production is projected to reach 108,079 tons. Compared to the previous crop of 2023-2024, this marks significant growth, with grapefruit production seeing increases of 118.28%. Bui Quoc Huan elaborates on the importance of these figures, indicating confidence about future production levels.
For the agricultural sector, the goal for the 2024-2025 season is ambitious – aiming to produce around 202,040 tons of citrus fruits across the province. The achievement is not merely about quantity; attention is also being directed toward quality, which has seen improvements leading to increased market value. For example, the current market price for red grapefruit produced in Tan Lac ranges from 9,000 to 14,000 VND per fruit.
"We anticipate achieving a total citrus production of 202,040 tons for the upcoming crop season," mentioned Nguyen Hong Yen, Director of the Regional Plant Protection Department. This confidence stems from strategic planning and coordinated efforts across the agricultural system to maintain quality and expand export capabilities effectively.
The Changemaker Group, operating within the framework of the export process, has been pivotal. They have employed technology for monitoring and ensuring quality at every stage of fruit production. This proactive approach enhances the relationship between producers and end consumers, whether they are local or from international markets.
Currently, the export of 78 tons of citrus fruits has already been reported to several markets, including the United States, the EU, the UK, and Malaysia, representing 125% growth compared to the 2023-2024 season. Such promising figures offer insight not only to how the industry is performing but also to the maturity it is attaining on the global stage.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The agricultural sector has proposed sustainable solutions to overcome difficulties and continue progress toward certifications necessary for entering major markets. For example, the target is to produce at least 300 tons of certified exports by 2025, with strategies to maintain 100% compliance with MSVT standards and introduce another 10 new codes for market access.
Looking forward, the synergy between the various stakeholders—from political bodies to grassroots farmers—will likely dictate the success of Vietnam's grapefruit and citrus fruit export initiatives. The existing momentum, characterized by cooperation and technological innovation, serves as the foundation on which these aspirations will be built.
During this transition period, Vietnamese grapefruit looks set to make its mark within international markets, with continued investment and supervision steering the course toward success. Bui Quoc Huan's remarks and Nguyen Hong Yen's forecasts underline the potential of these initiatives, showcasing both achievement and ambition as Vietnam enters this new phase of agricultural prominence.