Lao Cai Customs makes history with its first fresh coconuts export clearance

Professional activities at Lao Cai Customs Branch.

According to Deputy Manager of Lao Cai Border gate Customs Branch (Lao Cai Customs Department) Pham Van Phuc, a significant milestone has been reached in Vietnam's agricultural exports as the Lao Cai Border Gate Customs Department successfully facilitated the clearance of a truckload of fresh coconuts destined for China. This shipment, weighing over 24 tons, marks the first time the department has handled the export of this particular commodity.

Just a few days prior, on October 15, another 24-ton shipment of fresh coconuts underwent the same customs procedures.

These shipments represent the initial official exports of fresh coconuts from Vietnam to China via northern border crossings.

The development follows the signing of three crucial protocols between Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and China's General Department of Customs on August 19, 2024. These protocols, which specifically addressed the export of agricultural products to China, included provisions for fresh coconuts.

At a conference held on September 12, 2024, to discuss the implementation of the phytosanitary protocol for exporting fresh coconuts from Vietnam to China, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Hoang Trung emphasized the coconut tree's significance as a cash crop for many Vietnamese localities.

Coconuts are among the six key industrial crops identified by the Ministry for development until 2030.

Vietnam currently has 15 provinces cultivating coconuts across an area of approximately 200,000 hectares, yielding an annual production of 2 million tons.

In 2023, the country exported 30,000 tons of fresh coconuts and 320,000 tons of processed coconut products to 15 markets worldwide.

According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, Vietnam's total exports of coconuts and coconut products in 2023 exceeded US$900 million. The primary export destinations for fresh coconuts include the United States, Japan, and South Korea, with the United States accounting for about 51% of the total export value.

Vietnam's coconut industry currently ranks fourth globally in terms of total value.

To ensure compliance with Chinese regulations, competent authorities have issued guidelines for exporters, emphasizing the importance of adhering to China's phytosanitary laws, regulations, and food safety standards. Fresh coconuts for export to China must be free from pests and diseases of concern to Chinese authorities.

Before export, phytosanitary officials will conduct inspections and sample testing. For the first two years, a 2% sampling rate will be applied, reducing to 1% if no phytosanitary violations are detected.

Notably, Vietnam’s coconut will be exported to Chinese’s border gates which are permitted by General Department of Vietnam Customs.