Project looks to bolster Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports to Europe

A project to improve the quality of tropical fruits grown in Vietnam sponsored by the Dutch government has kicked off, offering chances for sustainable exports of dragon fruit to the challenging market of Europe.

Vietnam’s dragon fruit growing areas have been quickly expanded over the years to about 60,000ha. At present, consumption of the fruit heavily depends on the Chinese market. 

The project aims to enhance chances for exports of the fruit to the European market, heard a recent webinar arranged by an affiliate of Eurofins Scientific testing laboratories company.

It is also hoped to support farmers to apply right farming methods to meet technical standards of European importers, as well as connect importers in the Netherlands and tropical fruit growers in Vietnam.

The project focuses on introducing tools, solutions and technology to help farmers enjoy higher yield. 

Of note, it will apply Eurofins Scientific’s quality testing technology on soil for dragon fruit cultivation, along with in-field activities on farming techniques based on its own recommendations and process. Outcomes will be publicised widely.

Together with products’ quality and a trustworthy long-term supply planning, control over the use of pesticide is an important factor for the exports of dragon fruit to Europe. 

Vietnamese exporters are advised to learn of eligible substances and the accurate amount required by each importer so as to inform fruit growers. 

In addition to the Netherlands, countries in western and eastern Europe are viewed as potential importers of Vietnam’s dragon fruit.

The project, runs until March 2024, is to support four Vietnamese southern provinces - Binh Thuan, Long An, Ben Tre and Dong Thap - to improve the quality of three local tropical fruits - dragon fruit, mango and grapefruit - for exports to the European market./.