Australian mangoes fetch $23 per kg in Vietnam

Kensington Pride mangoes, a premium variety imported from Australia, are now being sold in Vietnam at an eye-watering price of VND600,000 (US$22.75) per kilogram. This is 7.5 times the cost of the same type of mango grown locally in Vietnam. The high price has sparked curiosity and interest among consumers, particularly in urban areas where these exotic fruits are becoming a symbol of luxury.

At a store located on Dinh Bo Linh Street in Binh Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, the owner shared insights about the import process. He mentioned that he only started importing the fruit in late October, purchasing just five boxes at a time due to the significant costs associated with transportation and storage. A single seven-kilogram box of these mangoes can fetch up to VND3.7 million, highlighting the exclusivity of the product.

Each individual mango typically weighs between 500 to 600 grams and is known for its firm texture and exceptional sweetness. These characteristics make them highly sought after by discerning customers who are willing to pay a premium for quality.

Kensington Pride mangoes on sale at a store in Binh Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo courtesy of Maui Foods

An employee at a store in Hanoi’s West Lake area, which also sells these mangoes at similar prices, explained that maintaining the cold chain is essential to preserving the fruit's quality. This requirement adds to the overall cost, further justifying the high retail price.

The Australian specialty mango, recognized for its vibrant gold flesh and subtle fragrance, is primarily imported into Vietnam via air freight. However, it is also cultivated in several regions within Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong Delta. Provinces such as Tien Giang, Dong Thap, and the city of Can Tho are major producers of this variety. At the farmgate, the mangoes are sold for VND20,000 to 25,000 per kilogram, while in retail stores, the price rises to VND80,000 per kilogram.

In Australia, Kensington Pride mangoes are mainly grown in arid regions like parts of Queensland and the Northern Territory. The harvesting season runs from October to December, ensuring a consistent supply during the warmer months. Major supermarkets such as Woolworths, Coles, and Harris Farm typically sell the fruit for around $6.7 to $8 per kilogram, making it relatively affordable in its country of origin.

According to customs data, Vietnam imported fruits and vegetables worth over $100 million from Australia in the first nine months of this year, marking a 27% increase compared to the same period last year. Mangoes, cherries, grapes, mandarins, and oranges were among the top imports, with most of these products commanding high prices in the Vietnamese market.

This trend reflects growing consumer demand for premium, imported goods, especially in urban centers where disposable incomes are higher. As the popularity of these exotic fruits continues to rise, it remains to be seen how the local production of Kensington Pride mangoes will evolve to meet the increasing demand.