A durian tree is seen in the Central Highlands. Photo by VnExpress/Thi Ha

For the first time, Vietnam will export fresh durian to China under the official quota, which reduces farmers’ risks.

The batch of 20 containers with hundreds of kilograms would be shipped from the central highlands province of Dak Lak under a protocol signed by both countries, Hoang Trung, head of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development’s plant protection department, said.

Chinese customs officials have approved 76 codes for durian farming areas and packaging in Vietnam.

Vietnam enjoys an advantage in that China has not succeeded in growing the fruit in the provinces of Yunnan and Haian and Guangxi Region.

Exporting under the official quota means exporters and buyers sign a contract before delivery enshrining higher quality standards and farmers face lower risks.

Under unofficial trade, the fruits are transported to the border but might be sent back if the quality is deemed low, or if there are no buyers, causing losses for farmers.

Most durian is exported to China, Vietnam’s biggest market, unofficially and in refrigerated trucks.

In the first six months of this year durian exports to China were up 123% to US$2.86 million, according to Vietnam Customs.