Vietnam’s Dragon Fruit Exports Soar: Thailand and Middle East Demand Spikes in 2026
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The initial two months of 2026 witnessed a 14% annual increase in Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports, amounting to US$108.5 million. This surge was primarily driven by a significant hike in deliveries to Thailand and the Middle East.
Vietnam’s Dragon Fruit Export Market
Cargo to Thailand experienced an over 2.7-fold increase, amounting to $9.2 million, while shipments to the United Arab Emirates grew by 57% to reach a value of $3.3 million.
China, however, retained its position as the largest buyer, accounting for $66.5 million of all exports, marking a 5% increase in comparison to previous years. On the other hand, demand from the U.S. saw a considerable decrease, falling by 39% to a value of $4 million.
These figures from the initial two months of the year could indicate a resurgence of shipments, pointing towards a potential recovery following a period of sustained decline.
Historical Trends in Dragon Fruit Exports
Between 2014 and 2018, the annual worth of dragon fruit exports consistently exceeded $1 billion. However, shifts in consumption patterns and increased competition led to a steady decline in the succeeding years.
The total worth of exports in the first 11 months of the previous year stood at $485.2 million, corresponding to the lowest recorded value since 2014.
Production and Supply Factors
Dragon fruit in Vietnam is predominantly harvested between May and September, although some off-season cultivation occurs in January and February. However, supply has been falling in recent years as farmers have transitioned towards more profitable crops.
Adverse weather conditions have also negatively impacted yield. Widespread flooding towards the end of last year resulted in fungal diseases in plants, significantly affecting dragon fruit production, particularly in Binh Thuan Province, a key cultivation region.
As a consequence of dwindling supply, farm-gate prices have seen a rise. During the first two months of this year, white-fleshed dragon fruit was sold for VND10,000-15,000 (US$0.38-0.57) per kilogram, and the red-fleshed variety was priced at VND15,000-25,000.
Questions & Answers
What led to the surge in Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports in early 2026?
A significant hike in deliveries to Thailand and the Middle East primarily drove the increase in exports.
Which is the largest market for Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports?
China is the largest market, accounting for $66.5 million of all exports.
What are the factors impacting the supply of dragon fruit in Vietnam?
A shift by farmers towards more profitable crops and adverse weather conditions causing fungal diseases in plants have led to a decline in dragon fruit supply.