A mango processing line at Nafood Group in the southern province of Long An. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — With a turnover of more than US$3.8 billion in the first seven months of the year and abundant supply when the harvest is about to begin, fruit and vegetable exports are expected to set a new record of $7 billion this year.

The record export would mark the outstanding development of the country's agricultural industry.

According to a report from the Việt Nam Vegetable and Fruit Association (Vinafruit), the country's fruit and vegetable export turnover in the first seven months grew 23.4 per cent over the same period last year.

This was a remarkable achievement, reflecting the continuous efforts of businesses in improving product quality and expanding markets.

Fruit and vegetable export activities continue to be favourable thanks to rising demand in traditional markets such as China and potential markets including South Korea, the US, Japan and Thailand.

Across the list of ten import markets leading Vietnamese fruits and vegetables most of which recorded growth rates from 15 to 96 per cent.

In particular, China still maintains its position as the largest market, accounting for 64 per cent of total export turnover with $2.1 billion in the first half of the year, posting 22 per cent year-on-year increase.

Key products contributing to this growth include durian, banana and dragon fruit.

Vietnamese fruits and vegetables also recorded an increase in demand in new markets such as the UK and the EU.

These are markets with great potential and are being exploited by the Vietnamese fruit and vegetable industry.

Market expansion to Europe not only helps diversify product output but also enhance export value, contributing to the goal of reaching $7 billion this year.

The Agency of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Industry and Trade said that Việt Nam's fruit and vegetable export activities would continue to face many advantages in the coming time thanks to abundant domestic supply and rising demand from traditional, as well as emerging markets.

Businesses needed to focus on capturing new consumer tastes in major markets, said the agency.

For the Chinese market, in addition to processed durian, products such as medicinal herbs, coconuts and frozen fruits also have the prospect of opening up for import.

Flexibility in meeting diverse market needs will be a decisive factor for Vietnamese businesses to strengthen their position and expand market share.— VNS