China has tightened regulations on durian imports, prompting a high-level visit by Vietnam’s third-ranking official. It is not too late to correct course. Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man is currently visiting China, discussing trade, investment, and railway projects, while once again advocating for greater market access for Vietnamese agricultural products. Yet a closer look reveals a pattern of initial missteps followed by damage control.
While Vietnam’s manufacturing sector has drawn global attention, agricultural exports remain central to its economy—and to the livelihoods of rural farmers. However, its traditional markets are undergoing significant shifts. In the United States, tariffs have escalated under Donald Trump’s return to the White House, with frozen shrimp facing a 19.62% tariff, canned tuna up to 47.5%, and proposed legislation threatening quotas and 200% tariffs on Vietnamese catfish.
In the European Union, food safety standards have been tightened, with okra and chili peppers subject to inspection rates as high as 50%. Next year, the EU’s deforestation-free supply chain regulation will take effect, putting coffee and rubber exports at risk. Meanwhile, escalating Middle East tensions have driven up logistics costs, squeezing profit margins for Vietnamese agricultural exports from both ends.
As a result, China has become an essential destination. In the first quarter of this year, Vietnam’s agricultural, forestry, and aquatic product exports to China surged by 37.6%, with China accounting for 22.1% of total exports—surpassing both the U.S. and Japan. Yet the durian, long considered Vietnam’s strategic advantage, has faltered: despite overtaking Thailand in export volume, Vietnam suffered losses exceeding $500 million due to price undercutting, forged certifications, and cadmium contamination.
After Chinese customs intensified inspections, Vietnam detained officials and investigated a deputy minister. But trust has already been eroded. At the 2026 China International Import Expo, Thailand was designated as the Southeast Asian theme country; Vietnam now seeks that honor for 2027, but with little confidence.
Chairman Tran Thanh Man’s current visit saw no mention in Chinese media statements of easing conditions for agricultural products. The message was clear: increased imports are possible—but only if quality and reliability are assured. Rather than repeatedly seeking exceptions, Vietnam should focus on strengthening its export oversight mechanisms. As the saying goes, the one who tied the knot must untie it. Correcting mistakes is never too late—but markets remain open only to compliant products and trustworthy partners.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1878902888230922/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.