On 23 April 2026, Viet Nam successfully exported its first consignment of fresh pomelos to Australia, marking an important milestone in gaining market access for high value-added fresh fruit products.

Access to the Australian market is the result of a prolonged negotiation process of technical regulations, with a key milestone being the conclusion of a bilateral agreement on 9 October 2025 allowing the import of Vietnamese fresh pomelos. Throughout this process, the Plant Protection Department acted as the focal point, working directly with Australian counterparts to establish phytosanitary requirements, standards for growing areas and packing facilities, as well as traceability mechanisms and post-harvest treatment procedures.

Following the agreement, technical requirements were further specified and implemented consistently across the entire supply chain. Key measures include: pest control in accordance with Australia’s regulated pest list; mandatory irradiation treatment; the establishment of monitoring systems for registered growing areas and approved packing houses; and ensuring full traceability for each consignment. The competent authority issued technical guidelines and coordinated with local authorities and enterprises to conduct inspections and supervision to ensure full compliance with import requirements.

The first shipment, weighing 940.5 kg, was transported by air and completed customs clearance immediately upon arrival in Australia. The entire process—from harvesting and preliminary processing to post-harvest treatment and transportation—was organized through a closed supply chain, involving multiple enterprises and stakeholders. Upon importation, the product was introduced at the Sydney Market, providing initial access to distribution channels and local consumers.

Source: Vneconomy

Notably, consignments may be subject to large-scale sampling inspections, with up to 600 fruits sampled for larger shipments. In cases of non-compliance, the goods may be subject to treatment measures such as re-export or destruction in accordance with regulations, while the competent authorities of both countries will coordinate to ensure full compliance with import requirements.

Subsequent commercial shipments, with larger volumes (approximately 5 tonnes), are currently being arranged, indicating strong potential for export expansion provided that compliance and quality standards are consistently maintained.

The successful customs clearance of the first consignment of fresh pomelos to Australia not only marks a significant step forward for the pomelo sector, but also lays a solid foundation for expanding exports of other Vietnamese fresh fruits to high-standard markets in the future./.

Source: Compiled by the Multilateral Trade Policy Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam