South Korean chamoe exports are expanding in Viet Nam following an agreement between the two countries to extend the permitted export period from May through June. The fruit is now being sold through major retail stores and specialty fruit outlets in Viet Nam, providing an additional sales channel during a period when domestic prices typically decline.

The extension follows a meeting between Song Mi-ryung, South Korea's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and Trinh Viet Hung, Viet Nam's Minister of Agriculture and Environment, held in Hanoi in April. The discussions focused on expanding Korean chamoe exports to Viet Nam and increasing fruit trade between the two countries.

Following consultations, the two sides agreed to extend the export period by one month. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs expects the change to support farm income during June, when chamoe prices generally come under pressure.

At a press conference in Sunchang County, North Jeolla Province, last month, Minister Song said: "Since June is when chamoe prices fall sharply, increasing exports during this period is essential to providing real help to farmers." She added, "With exports now possible through June starting this year, a foundation has been laid for future export expansion."

Chamoe is grown in a limited number of countries, with around 80 per cent of South Korea's production concentrated in Seongju, North Gyeongsang Province. The region is the country's main production area for the crop.

Last year, South Korean chamoe exports reached approximately 280 tons across 21 markets, including Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. Viet Nam became a new export destination in March, when around 500 kilograms of chamoe were shipped to the market for the first time.

The opening of the Vietnamese market followed quarantine negotiations between the two countries that had been underway since 2008 and were concluded last year.

According to the ministry, efforts will continue to expand overseas sales channels for agricultural products, including chamoe. Minister Song said: "We will continue to do our best to expand K-food exports."

Source: Freshplaza