Mangoes processed for export. The EU is increasing imports of fruit from Việt Nam, with the export of mangoes, pineapples, coconuts and pistachios registering growth of 41-200 per cent in the first four months of this year. — VNA/VNS Photo Vũ Sinh

HÀ NỘI — The European Union is increasing imports of fruit from Việt Nam, with the export of mangoes, pineapples, coconuts and pistachios registering growth of 41-200 per cent in the first four months of this year.

Data from the General Department of Customs showed that Việt Nam’s fruit and vegetable exports to the EU totalled US$132 million from January to April, up 33 per cent year-on-year.

Mangoes topped the list with $27.6 million in export value, up 54 per cent, followed by pistachios at $17 million, up 90 per cent. Pineapple shipments to the EU tripled to $11 million and coconut rose 41 per cent to $10 million.

The Netherlands remains the largest market for Vietnamese produce in the bloc, accounting for nearly $37 million, or 28 per cent of the total export value. Exports to Poland doubled, while shipments to Spain increased by 83 per cent. Germany and France also posted double-digit growth.

According to Đặng Phúc Nguyên, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetables Association, Vietnamese fruit is becoming increasingly popular in the EU, driven by post-pandemic improvements in demand.

He added that unfavourable weather in some EU countries has reduced domestic fruit output, forcing the bloc to rely more on imports.

Việt Nam’s exports have also benefitted from the EU-Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement, with the removal of tariffs on various types of fruit, giving Vietnamese exporters a competitive advantage.

SPS Vietnam, an agency that monitors Vietnamese products for compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary measures, said that European consumers increasingly favour green consumption, organic food and certified products, offering opportunities for Việt Nam’s exporters and producers.

The office urged exporters and producers to ensure compliance with the EU’s strict sanitary and phytosanitary requirements to expand exports to this bloc.

Việt Nam’s fruit and vegetables exports to the EU hit a record of $4.2 billion last year, with fruit shipments registering two-digit growth rates. — VNS