The first batches of Vietnamese durian from Dak Lak Province that have passed stringent safety guidelines began their journey to China on September 17.

Eight producers have each sent between 60 and 100 tonnes of the fruit. It will take two days for the containers to reach Huu Nghi Border Gate.

With the approval from China, durian prices have increased from VND50,000 (US$2.1) to around VND75,000 per kilo.

More durians from 23 China-approved growing areas are also on the way to a code-granted facility in Dak Lak to be sorted and packaged for delivery to China. Transportation requirements include using cartons with air holes for ventilation and quality control.

Qualified durians need to weigh three kilos each and meet stringent safety standards. They are required to have traceability stamps as well, which will be presented in English or Chinese and show the name of the packaging facility.

Previously, Vietnamese durians could not go straight to China but had to be transported via Thailand. — VNS