Top Vietnamese Fruits Gaining Popularity in Taiwan This Year

Taiwan is experiencing a surge in demand for tropical fruits, with Vietnamese produce increasingly sought after for its superior taste, affordability, and freshness. In 2024, six exotic fruits from Vietnamese fruit trees are making waves in Taiwan's market: durian, fresh coconut, mangosteen, dragon fruit, rambutan, and mango. Strong trade ties, favorable climate, and rising health awareness are fueling this trend, with companies like Agri Sung playing a vital role in connecting Vietnamese growers with Taiwanese buyers. Let's explore these Vietnamese tropical fruits and others that are captivating taste buds across Taiwan.

Why Vietnamese Fruits Are Gaining Ground

1. Superior Quality: Vietnam's tropical climate supports year-round cultivation, yielding high-sugar, vibrant fruits. Varieties like Ri6 durian and pink dragon fruit are prized for their taste and color. The fruit of Vietnam, including those native to the Mekong Delta region, are known for their exceptional flavor and juicy texture.
2. Competitive Prices: Due to lower production costs, Vietnamese fruits are more affordable than other imports, offering great value for Taiwanese buyers. This includes a wide range of Vietnamese fruit names that are becoming household favorites.
3. Cultural Fit: Taiwan ranks among Asia's highest fruit consumers, with around 135 kg per capita annually. Tropical varieties and exotic fruits are especially popular, aligning perfectly with the diverse fruits native to Vietnam.
4. Strong Trade Framework: Vietnam's compliance with international phytosanitary standards and Taiwan's flexible import policies facilitate smooth fruit trade, allowing for a steady supply of refreshing Vietnamese fruits and vegetables.
5. Safety and Inspection: Taiwan requires strict food safety standards. For instance, Vietnamese durian underwent 100% inspection in 2024, assuring consumers of its quality and safety.
6. Farm-to-Market Efficiency: The process of Vietnam pick fruit sell at market is highly efficient, ensuring that fresh produce reaches Taiwanese consumers quickly, maintaining its quality and flavor.

The Fruits Leading the Trend

Durian: The Bold Favorite

Description: Known for its creamy texture and strong aroma, durian is beloved despite its pungent smell. Often mistaken as the fruit that looks like durian, jackfruit is another popular Vietnamese export.

In Taiwan: Previously dominated by Thai imports, Vietnamese durians like Ri6 are now popular for their rich flavor and lower cost.

Stats: Vietnam exported $2.8 billion worth of durian in the first 9 months of 2024, with Taiwan among the fastest-growing markets.

Fresh Coconut: Health in a Shell

Description: Young coconuts offer naturally sweet water and soft flesh, ideal for hydration and rich in essential nutrients.

In Taiwan: Popular in drinks and desserts; widely available in convenience stores and bubble tea shops.

Stats: Vietnam's coconut exports are projected to surpass $1 billion in 2024, with a 69% year-on-year rise in shipments to Taiwan.

Mangosteen: The Superfruit

Description: With a sweet-tangy taste and rich antioxidants, mangosteen is dubbed the "queen of fruits." It's one of the many summer fruits from Vietnam that's high in vitamin C.

In Taiwan: Once rare, Vietnamese mangosteen now appears in high-end fruit baskets and summer stalls.

Stats: Vietnam became the 4th largest global supplier of mangosteen in early 2024, with growing volumes to Taiwan.

Dragon Fruit: A Daily Delight

Description: Bright-skinned and mildly sweet, dragon fruit is both nutritious and photogenic. It's one of the most recognizable fruits in Vietnamese cuisine.

In Taiwan: Readily available year-round, used in smoothies, salads, and fruit bowls.

Stats: Exports reached $450 million in 2024, making it Vietnam's second-largest fruit export.

Rambutan: The Exotic Pick

Description: With its hairy red skin and juicy white flesh, rambutan is a visual and flavorful treat. It's often compared to lychee, another popular fruit from Southeast Asia.

In Taiwan: Gaining traction for its unique look and taste; sold in upscale stores during summer.

Stats: Rambutan contributes to Vietnam's record $3.8 billion fruit export in 2024, with rising interest from Taiwan.

Mango: The Year-Round Essential

Description: Sweet and aromatic, Vietnamese mangoes like Cát Chu rival local varieties in flavor. They're a staple in the Vietnamese fruits list.

In Taiwan: Complements local mango season, extending availability from spring through fall.

Stats: Vietnam exported 600,000+ tons of mangoes in 2023, with growing share in Taiwan's market.

Other Notable Vietnamese Fruits

While the above fruits lead the trend, other exotic fruits from Vietnam are also gaining popularity. Here's a list of tropical fruits that are making their mark:

• Lychee: Sweet and fragrant, lychees are a summer favorite
• Jackfruit: This large, spiky fruit is often used in both sweet and savory dishes
• Passion Fruit: Tart and refreshing, it's perfect for juices and desserts
• Star Fruit: Known for its unique shape and crisp texture
• Longan: Similar to lychee, this fruit is prized for its delicate flavor
• Na fruit Vietnam: Also known as custard apple, it has a creamy texture and sweet flavor
• Persimmon: With its vibrant orange color and honey-like sweetness, it's gaining popularity
• Pomelo: This large citrus fruit is known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits.

Where to Find Trusted Suppliers

1. Agri Sung and Direct Exporters: Partner with firms that vet farms for safety and freshness, ensuring high-quality Viet fruit.
2. Agricultural Cooperatives: Reliable sources from Bến Tre (coconut) and Bình Thuận (dragon fruit) offer traceable, certified supply. Many of these cooperatives are located in the fertile Mekong Delta region.
3. B2B Platforms: Use platforms like Alibaba or Tridge to source from vetted Vietnamese exporters offering a wide range of fruits native to Vietnam.
4. Trade Fairs: Visit Vietfood & Beverage or Food Taipei to meet suppliers and explore product samples, including lesser-known fruits like custard apple and star apple.
5. Local Distributors: Many Taiwanese importers bring Vietnamese fruits to wholesale markets and specialty stores. You can also find a variety of Vietnamese fruits at local fruit markets and from street vendors.
6. Direct from Farmers: Some importers work directly with man Vietnamese fruit farmers, ensuring the freshest produce and supporting local communities.

Conclusion

Vietnamese fruits are enriching Taiwan's food culture, offering tropical flavor, affordability, and freshness. With strong sourcing networks and high standards, Vietnamese fruits like durian, coconut, and mango are now household names in Taiwan. Companies like Agri Sung ensure seamless connections between growers and global buyers, bringing the best of Vietnam's orchards to Taiwanese consumers.

If you're in Taiwan, don't miss out on these juicy and refreshing treats. Try a Vietnamese mango smoothie or fresh coconut today—and experience why these exotic fruits are winning hearts across the island. From the sweet and sour flavors of green Vietnamese fruit to the creamy texture of durian, there's a world of tropical tastes waiting to be explored.

FAQs

Q: How can I tell a durian is ripe?

A: Look for a strong aroma, hollow sound when tapped, and slight softness at the spikes.

Q: Is coconut water healthy?

A: Yes, it's low-calorie, rich in electrolytes, and helps with hydration and recovery. It's also a good source of vitamin C.

Q: When are these fruits available?

A: Each fruit in Vietnam has its own peak season, aligned with its natural growing cycle. Here's a quick guide:

• Durian: May–Oct (peak June–July); some off-season in Dec–Jan

• Coconut: Year-round

• Mangosteen: May–Aug

• Dragon Fruit: Mostly May–Aug, smaller crop Nov–Dec

• Rambutan: May–Sep

• Mango: Mar–Jul (some in late summer/fall)

• Lychee: May–Jul

• Jackfruit: May–Sep

Q: How do I connect with Vietnamese suppliers?

A: Contact importers, explore B2B sites like Tridge, or work with Agri Sung for verified partners. You can also visit fruit markets in major cities or connect with street vendors for a more local experience.

Q: Are there any unique Vietnamese fruits I should try?

A: Yes! Look for soursop, a fruit that looks like a pear tastes like guava is usually too bitter to eat raw. Also, try sapodilla, java apple, and the Vietnamese milk fruit for a truly exotic experience.