HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam is emerging as a key player in Southeast Asia’s perishable goods market, driven by strong agricultural output and increasing demand, especially from China, according to Ee-Hui Tan, Managing Director of FedEx Vietnam & Cambodia.

The country’s cold-chain logistics market, valued at US$1.5 million in 2024, is projected to grow at 13.6 per cent annually, reaching $5.2 million by 2033. However, infrastructure and regulatory challenges must be addressed to sustain this growth.

China’s demand for fresh produce is soaring, intensifying competition among Southeast Asian exporters. In 2024, China imported a record $6.99 billion worth of durians, with Thailand leading at $4 billion. 

Việt Nam, however, is gaining ground, increasing durian exports by 37.6 per cent in 2023 to reach $2.9 billion, securing a 41.5 per cent market share. To stay competitive, exporters must strengthen supply chains and meet China’s stringent import regulations.

Việt Nam’s fruit and vegetable exports hit $5.6 billion in 2024, with China accounting for nearly 65 per cent. While cross-border trucking remains dominant, road congestion and temperature fluctuations pose risks, especially during peak seasons. As a result, air cargo is becoming a critical alternative. In 2024, Việt Nam’s air cargo volume for perishables to China surged by 42.5 per cent, with perishable shipments making up 78 per cent of total air cargo.

“As market demand spikes, Vietnamese agricultural exporters must adopt a flexible, multi-modal shipping strategy, balancing truck, air, and sea freight to optimise efficiency,” said Ee-Hui Tan. 

“Air cargo, combined with advanced cold-storage solutions, is essential for preserving quality and ensuring seamless deliveries.”

Overcoming logistics challenges

Despite strong demand, Việt Nam’s perishable exports face bottlenecks in cold-storage capacity, leading to spoilage and delays. Inadequate infrastructure and evolving Chinese import regulations further complicate exports. 

Ensuring traceability, food safety compliance and efficient customs clearance is critical to maintaining Việt Nam’s market position.

To sustain export momentum, Việt Nam must invest in specialised cold-chain infrastructure. Logistics providers like FedEx are introducing tailored solutions, including temperature-controlled containers and express customs clearance support.

“Beyond transportation, regulatory and storage support is equally essential,” Tan said. “FedEx’s inbound express warehouses maintain controlled temperatures from -10°C to 25°C, ensuring product freshness upon arrival.”

With continued investment in logistics and technology, Việt Nam is well-positioned to expand its role in the global perishable trade. — VNS