Use of fake codes in durian exports to China reported

Some fraudsters have been exploiting fake farming area and packaging facility codes to export durian to China, according to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association. This malpractice has sparked complaints from genuine exporters, as stated by Dang Phuc Nguyen, the association's general secretary.

To export durians to China, only fruits from farming areas and packaging facilities with approved area codes from Chinese authorities are permitted. However, cases of fraud have surfaced, undermining this system.

One notable incident involved the exporter Vina T&T. Fraudsters forged the stamp and signature of Vo Huu Truong, head of its office in Ben Tre Province, to authorize another company, Eureka Marketing, to use Vina T&T’s packaging facility code (VN-BTPH-036). Consequently, several shipments bearing this fraudulent code passed through customs.

Nguyen Dinh Tung, CEO of Vina T&T, expressed concerns that such fraudulent activities could harm his company's reputation. Furthermore, misuse of farming area codes has resulted in Chinese customs revoking certain codes after detecting contaminated shipments. Legitimate owners of these codes have suffered financial losses, despite not being responsible for the violations.

The association has called on authorities to strengthen oversight and implement strict punishments for violators. It also suggested creating a database to manage farming area and packaging facility codes more effectively. Improved transparency and product traceability, along with publicizing lists of legitimate entities and violations, could help deter future fraud.

Additionally, the association emphasized the need for Vietnam to collaborate with importing countries to prevent such violations.

Despite these challenges, Vietnam’s durian exports are forecasted to exceed US$3.2 billion in 2024, a 40% increase from 2023. The upward trend is expected to continue as processed durian products, which have higher value than fresh fruits, penetrate the Chinese market.

Vietnam currently cultivates durians on approximately 154,000 hectares, producing 1.2 million tons annually.