Vietnam sees surge in U.S. fruit and vegetable imports

Vietnamese consumers spent about $51 million per month on fruit and vegetable imports from the U.S. in the first quarter of the year, making the U.S. the country’s fastest-growing supplier, according to VN Express.

Vu Minh Duc, a representative of the California Raisin Association in Vietnam, noted a rising appetite for American produce such as raisins, potatoes, avocados, and chicken. “U.S. products have earned trust among Vietnamese consumers due to their consistent high quality,” he told Thanh Nien newspaper.

A recent government decree lowering tariffs on U.S. goods—including cherries, raisins, and frozen chicken thighs—is expected to further boost accessibility and affordability.

According to the Vietnam Fruits & Vegetables Association (Vinafruit), the U.S. was Vietnam’s second-largest supplier of fruits and vegetables in Q1, with imports reaching $160 million. China remained the top supplier with $224 million in exports to Vietnam. U.S. imports surged by 55.4 percent, accounting for 26.5 percent of total fruit and vegetable imports—up 5.5 percent year-over-year.

Experts attribute the growth to Vietnam’s increasing participation in free trade agreements, which both China and the U.S. are capitalizing on to expand agricultural exports.

The reduction in tariffs effective March 31 is expected to fuel even greater import volumes. U.S. exporters are actively working to promote their products in Vietnam. On April 22, American blueberry producers held a promotional event in Ho Chi Minh City.

Francis Lee, a representative of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, highlighted the popularity of blueberries, which were approved for import in 2019. In 2024, shipments rose by 64 percent to reach 100 tons. U.S. companies plan to host more sampling events to introduce their offerings to Vietnamese shoppers.

Vinafruit General Secretary, Dang Phuc Nguyen, said that the surge in U.S. imports is driven by quality, competitive pricing, and a strong preference for American products. He predicted “explosive” growth in the near future, supported by recent tariff cuts and upcoming negotiations for mutual tariff reductions between Vietnam and the U.S.