Kensington Pride mangoes, originally from Australia, have been on sale in Vietnam at an astounding price — VND600,000 (US$22.8) per kilogram, which is 7.5 times more than the price of the local variety. A store owner in Dinh Bo Linh Street, located within the Binh Thanh Ward of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), revealed that a seven-kilogram box of these mangoes could bring in a whopping VND 3.7 million.
Importing Exotic Fruits
The store owner started importing these mangoes just recently, in late October, and has been conservatively buying only five boxes at a time due to the steep costs of transportation and storage. The Kensington Pride mangoes are characterized by their weight, approximately 500-600 grams per fruit, and their firm flesh and high sugar content that accounts for their exceptional sweetness.
Similarly, an employee from a store in Hanoi’s West Lake region, which also sells the fruit at the same high price, mentioned that these mangoes need to be kept chilled at all times, which further adds to their cost.
The Allure of Australian Mangoes
The Australian mango variety, known for its brilliant golden flesh and gentle aroma, is primarily imported to Vietnam via air. It is also widely cultivated in the Mekong Delta region, specifically in the Tien Giang and Dong Thap provinces along with the Can Tho city. The locally grown variety is sold for VND20,000-25,000 per kilogram at the farm gate and VND80,000 at retail stores.
In Australia, these mangoes flourish in dry climate regions like certain parts of Queensland and the Northern Territory. The harvest typically happens between October and December. Major Australian supermarkets such as Woolworths, Coles, and Harris Farm usually sell these mangoes for $6.7-8 per kilogram.
Surge in Fruit and Vegetable Imports
According to statistics from the customs department, the import of fruits and vegetables from Australia to Vietnam surpassed $100 million in the first nine months of this year, marking a 27% increase from the previous year. Mangoes, followed by cherries, grapes, mandarins, and oranges were the most imported items, each carrying a hefty price tag in Vietnam.
Questions & Answers
Why are Kensington Pride mangoes so expensive in Vietnam?
The high cost is due to the import and cold storage charges, which makes the fruit more expensive than the local variety.
What makes Kensington Pride mangoes different from other varieties?
These mangoes are known for their bright golden flesh, mild aroma, and a distinct sweetness. They are also larger in size, weighing approximately 500-600 grams per fruit.
Which fruits are the most imported from Australia to Vietnam?
Mangoes top the list, followed by cherries, grapes, mandarins, and oranges. They all carry a high price tag in Vietnam due to import costs.
