VIETNAM

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

Importers said that the short crop of USA Pears has kept prices high, making it difficult for them to import. The US Dollar continues to maintain high levels, increasing pressure on importers. During trade visits, USA Green Anjou are available in market with small volumes and were distributed to high-end fruit stores at high prices. A small amount of USA Pears will continue to arrive in the market at the end of January to serve the Lunar New Year season.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

None at this time.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Importers continue to be interested in three main pear varieties: Green Anjou, Red Anjou and Bosc because of their high crispness, sweet and long shelf life. Fruit size is usually about 90-100.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

The pear market continues to be dominated by Chinese pear varieties with cheap prices and good quality. In supermarkets, Korean pears and South African pears continue to be available in large volumes but maintain high prices, making it difficult to compete with Chinese pears.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

Vietnam's economy remains stable and is expected to grow by 7% in 2024, however consumers continue to tighten spending, limiting purchases of high-value products.

Other Brief Comments:

None at this time.