According to the U.S. Apple Association, Vietnam stands as the 3rd largest export market for U.S. apples. Within the apple export industry, the United States has achieved record numbers, with Vietnam importing 2 million cartons annually, equivalent to about 40,000 tons. Following apples, grapes are also among the most imported fruits, reaching nearly 192 million USD (a 77.5% increase compared to the same period in 2021); the main sources of import are Australia, the United States, and China).
The Vietnamese market favors U.S. apples for the following reasons.
Vietnam's significance as a major destination for U.S. apple exports reflects the country's growing demand and preference for these nutritious and delicious fruits. The relationship between the two nations in the agricultural trade sector has been strengthening over the years, contributing to the impressive rise in apple imports. Furthermore, Vietnamese consumers' affinity for U.S. apples is evident in the substantial year-on-year increase in imports, indicating a burgeoning market for this versatile fruit. The high-quality standards and stringent regulations of U.S. apple production ensure that Vietnamese consumers receive safe and superior products.
U.S. apples also offer a diverse range of varieties and flavors for consumers to choose from. From Gala apples (harvested from mid-August to early September) to Ambrosia apples with their sweet, crispy, juicy, and fragrant taste (ripening from October depending on the growing region), and Envy apples, the premium type known for their large round shape, yellow-striped skin, crisp, sweet, and aromatic flesh that retains a pristine white color when sliced. Additionally, Rockit apples are popular due to their single-serving size, crispy, sweet, and juicy texture with high water content. Other varieties such as Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, and more contribute to the abundant selection.
Secondly, the U.S. has significant apple production, with states like Washington alone exporting about 30% of their total apple yield to over 60 countries worldwide each year. The export volume reaches over 50 million cartons, each containing 42 pounds.
The import trends demonstrate Vietnam's openness to diverse agricultural produce, embracing the flavors and goodness from different parts of the world. The growing consumption of imported fruits reflects the changing dietary preferences and increasing health consciousness among Vietnamese consumers. The increasing demand for apples in Vietnam can be attributed to the growing awareness of their beneficial effects on health. Vietnamese people have come to recognize the advantages of apples, such as aiding in weight loss, combating oxidative stress, inhibiting cancer initiation, and promoting cell growth. Moreover, apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and enhancing the immune system. As a result of these factors, U.S. apples have gained popularity in Vietnam and are increasingly becoming a regular part of Vietnamese households' dining tables. The abundance of varieties, the high production capacity, and the health benefits they offer have made U.S. apples a preferred choice among Vietnamese consumers.
Looking ahead, the prospects for the import market in Vietnam remain bright, with a continued demand for high-quality fruits such as apples and grapes. This trend indicates a promising future for both U.S. exporters and Vietnamese consumers, fostering economic cooperation and enriching Vietnam's culinary landscape with a bountiful variety of fruits from across the globe.
The truth about Vietnam importing 2 million crates of U.S. apples annually
While it is known that Vietnamese people prefer U.S. apples, the staggering number of 2 million crates, equivalent to 40 million kilograms, imported in a single year has left many incredulous.
Mr. Francis Lee confirmed these figures and stated that it was the production for the year 2019, which marked a record-breaking year for Vietnam's import of U.S. apples. In 2021, the quantity of U.S. apples imported by Vietnam decreased to 1.5 million crates due to the impact of COVID-19 and a reduced apple harvest in the U.S. Vietnam imports various apple varieties, including Gala, Ambrosia, Rockit, Envy, Red Delicious, and green apples, with prices ranging from 20 to 40 USD per crate.
Annually, the U.S. produces about 130 million crates of apples, exporting 30 to 40 million crates worldwide. With significant imports in Asia, Vietnam ranks as the second-largest market for Washington apples after Taiwan-China. In the fruit and vegetable sector, the U.S. is Vietnam's second-largest supplier, only behind China, with a value of over 308 million USD in 2021.
Overall, the thriving apple trade between the U.S. and Vietnam is a testament to the increasing awareness of the health benefits and unique flavors of U.S. apples among Vietnamese consumers. With the fruit and vegetable sector witnessing Vietnam's substantial imports of over 308 million USD from the U.S (in 2021), it is evident that the Vietnamese market continues to play a vital role in the growth and success of the U.S. apple industry.
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