HCMC – Vietnam is considering stepping up imports of U.S. mandarins, plums, and lemons as part of its efforts to balance agricultural trade, according to Do Duc Duy, minister of Agriculture and Environment
The ministry has drafted import conditions for American mandarins, which would enable U.S. mandarins to enter Vietnam during the next harvest season, reported the Vietnam News Agency.
It is also working on approvals for plums and lemons. Vietnam plans to send a Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) report for these fruits to U.S. authorities in April and May.
During a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Marc E. Knapper on March 26 in Hanoi, Duy said both sides discussed balancing farm trade. Knapper emphasized that expanding U.S. exports to Vietnam remains a priority.
Vietnam has already approved 60 out of 61 applications for genetically modified products, mainly corn and soybeans used as animal feed. In 2024, Vietnam imported nearly US$1.5 billion of these commodities from the U.S.
Knapper also highlighted U.S. support for Vietnam’s sustainable development, particularly in areas like climate change, resource management, and fisheries. The U.S. recently announced a US$2.5 million aid package to assist Vietnam in combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Vietnam’s Government welcomed further cooperation in IUU fishing. Duy noted the importance of protecting fishermen’s livelihoods while enhancing enforcement efforts.
The meeting followed recent discussions between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, where Vietnam gained insights into U.S. business interests.
Both sides aim to strengthen trade ties and facilitate U.S. farm exports to Vietnam, contributing to a more balanced trade relationship.
