Vietnam becomes the 9th largest fresh fruit importer of U.S.

Fruits imported from U.S. to Vietnam grew 46% during the first 10 months last year to $97 million before Sunkist oranges was allowed to sell in the market, Benjamin Petlock, agriculture adviser of the U.S. Department of Agriculture told the launching ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City.

American fruit exported to Vietnam is expected to have a steady growth in 2020 thanks to entry of Navel oranges from California and other types of fruits to be granted enter the market of 100 million people.

Agricultural trade between the two countries is one of the most important areas of the U.S.-Vietnam bilateral relationship, which has grown significantly over the past 25 years, he said, adding now Vietnamese consumers can enjoy fresh U.S. oranges, in addition to the other fresh U.S. fruits approved for import into Vietnam including apples, grapes, cherries, pears, and blueberries.

Sunkist oranges imported from the U.S. to Vietnam have to face 20% tariff while those imported from Australia enjoys 3% tariff. However, the fruits will be distributed to wholesale markets as well as supermarket shelves.

Among more than 40 types of Sunkist oranges, Vietnam has granted permission for three types of oranges. Other types of lemon and oranges are waiting for permission to enter Vietnam.

"Vietnam, a tropical country, is a very potential market for American fruits. The current 20% tax is pretty high. We expect the rate will be reduced in the coming time when governments of the two countries establish free trade agreement,” said Sunkist Growers Vice President Rayne Thompson.

About 20 containers of Navel oranges worth $1 million are on the way to Vietnam. More orange to be imported in this year, said Lu Minh Quang, import director of Biovegi. 

Sunkist Growers, the world’s most recognized citrus brand, was founded in 1893. It is a not-for-profit cooperative that has been dedicated to growing and offering quality citrus to customers worldwide for the past 126 years.