EXPORTING FROZEN DURIAN TO CHINA: PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS

The export of frozen durian has emerged as a promising trend, especially following the signing of a protocol between Vietnam and China in August 2024. This agreement marks a significant milestone in expanding export markets and enhancing the added value of Vietnam’s durian industry.

 

Market Potential for Frozen Durian Exports

Vietnamese durian is among the most favored tropical fruits in the Chinese market. Statistics indicate that China consumes over 800,000 tons of durian annually, with the majority imported from Thailand. With the official approval to export frozen durian to China, Vietnam has a timely opportunity to assert its position and compete directly with other major exporting countries in the region.

Compared to fresh durian, frozen durian offers several advantages:

• Not restricted by harvest seasons

• Longer shelf life and greater transportation flexibility

• Preserves flavor, quality, and nutritional value

• Higher export value due to deep processing

Freezing and processing enable the product to meet year-round consumption demand in China, where domestic production still falls short of consumer needs.

 

Conditions for Exporting Frozen Durian to China

To be eligible for export, businesses must comply with strict regulations from both Vietnamese and Chinese authorities:

• Raw material sourcing: Frozen durians must be sourced from registered growing areas with officially issued plantation codes.

• Processing and freezing: The durian must be frozen at -35°C or lower for at least one hour and maintained at a core temperature of -18°C or below throughout the logistics chain.

• Production and packaging facilities: Facilities must be certified in food safety management systems such as HACCP or ISO 22000.

• GACC registration: Exporters must register with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) via the CIFER system and obtain an export code.

• Compliance with food safety and phytosanitary standards: Required certificates must meet the import country’s regulations.

 

Official Export Procedures for Frozen Durian

To ensure a smooth export process, businesses must follow these essential steps:

1. Register Production and Packing Facilities

Growing areas, processing plants, and packing facilities must be inspected and issued with official plantation and facility codes approved for export.

 

2. Register for GACC Export Code

This is a mandatory step to legally export agricultural products to China. Required documents include:

• Facility capability profile

• Food safety report

• Production process description

• Supporting images and video documentation

 

3. Prepare Customs Documentation

Each export shipment must be accompanied by the following documents:

• Export customs declaration

• Sales contract

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Phytosanitary certificate

• Certificate of origin (C/O)

 

Conclusion

The official opening of the Chinese market for frozen durian presents a golden opportunity for Vietnamese exporters to enhance product value, optimize raw material use, and build a sustainable market presence. However, success hinges on strict regulatory compliance and a standardized production and freezing process. If your business needs a trusted partner for registration and export support, Smart Link Logistics is ready to provide dedicated consultation and expert assistance.