China steps up inspection of durian imports

China has recently strengthened inspection measures on fresh imported durians, especially the new Auramine O (Auramine O) test, forcing some Vietnamese enterprises to transfer durians back to the domestic market and sell them at a lower price, suffering great losses.

Vietnamese online media VnExpress reported that as China implemented stricter standards, especially requiring the testing of auramine O (a chemical with potential carcinogenic risk), some Vietnamese durian exporters were returned by Chinese customs due to the lack of auramine O testing certification, while others did not want to wait for customs clearance and chose to ship back to Vietnam for sale.

Du Wenbian, general manager of Anqiu Dolor, said the company had to recall 10 containers of 170 tons of durian after failing to clear customs at the border. Five of the containers were returned by Chinese customs for lack of auramine O certification, while the other five containers were diverted to Hanoi for sale.

"These containers have been stuck at the border for more than 10 days, waiting for customs clearance and transportation, the longer the risk of durian deterioration, so now we can only sell at a lower price to minimize the loss, which is expected to exceed 10 billion dong."

He stressed that this is the first time the company's goods have been returned by Chinese customs. "Previously only cadmium content was checked, and our products have always met standards. At present, our company has suspended exports, waiting for clearer guidelines from the Chinese side."

China began testing for auramine O in late 2024 after several batches of Thai durian were detected. The sudden change has left many Vietnamese businesses unable to adapt quickly, resulting in goods being returned or delayed at the border.

Earlier this month, China issued a warning against Vietnam's export of durian and fresh jackfruit, saying it violated phytosanitary and food safety regulations.

In 2024, Vietnam's durian exports hit a new high of $3.3 billion, accounting for nearly half of total fruit and vegetable exports. China is still the main market.