According to Vietnam’s General Department of Customs, by the end of October this year, the export value of fruits and vegetables to the U.S. was estimated at nearly $287 million, a significant 35.3% increase compared to the same period last year. Among Vietnam’s top export markets for fruits and vegetables, the U.S. ranks second, following China.

Vietnamese produce, including fresh coconuts and passion fruits, has been gaining increasing popularity in the U.S. market.

The U.S. is a major consumer of coconut products, with a rising demand for processed coconut items such as coconut water, oil, and flour. To meet domestic needs, the U.S. imports a substantial number of coconuts each year.

According to the International Trade Centre (ITC), in the first eight months of 2024, the U.S. spent $47.35 million importing approximately 44,910 tons of fresh coconuts (both peeled and unpeeled, excluding inner husks). This represents an 11.5% increase in volume and an 18.8% increase in value compared to the same period in 2023.

The U.S. sources coconuts from 17 countries and territories, with key suppliers including Mexico, Thailand, Vietnam, and Costa Rica.

From Thailand: The U.S. imported 10,970 tons of coconuts worth $14.48 million, marking a 14.9% decrease in volume and a 12.6% drop in value compared to the same period last year. Thailand’s share of the U.S. coconut import market fell from 32% in the first eight months of 2023 to 24.4% in the same period in 2024.

From Vietnam: U.S. imports surged, with 3,860 tons of Vietnamese coconuts valued at $3.94 million, representing a 1,156% increase in volume and a 933.6% increase in value compared to the same period in 2023.

Thanks to this surge, Vietnam’s share of the U.S. coconut import market rose from 0.76% in 2023 to 8.59% in 2024.

In early August 2023, Vietnamese fresh coconuts (peeled of the green outer shell and at least 75% of the inner husk) were officially granted access to the U.S. market. Meeting the stringent requirements of the U.S. has unlocked significant potential for Vietnam’s coconut industry.

Vietnam is currently among the world’s top 10 coconut producers, indicating vast potential for further export growth. Recently, Vietnamese fresh coconuts have also entered the Chinese market, with export shipments steadily heading to the billion-person nation.

Tam An