High Demand for Rare Seedless Lychee in Vietnam

Hanh, a fruit shop owner in HCMC’s District 3, reports that despite being in season, the supply of Thanh Hoa seedless lychee is extremely limited. "I only managed to procure 300 kilograms this harvest and sold out almost immediately," Hanh shared. Customers are required to place orders a month in advance and pay a premium for this rare delicacy.

Supply Struggles to Meet Demand

Tran Thi Ngoc Chau of Tam Ngoc Garden Fruit store in District 8, despite having connections with established fruit traders, could only secure a few tons of seedless lychees. This quantity falls short of the overwhelming pre-orders received, mostly from office workers and high-income individuals captivated by the fruit's unique taste.

Challenges in Production

Bui Duc Thuy, deputy director of Ho Guom – Song Am High Tech Agriculture, mentioned a 33% drop in output to seven tons this year due to adverse weather and pests. With over 550 kilograms exported to France, the remaining stock is insufficient to meet domestic demand, leading to many rejected orders.

Quality and Market Position

The seedless lychee, larger and with a unique taste, is gaining popularity for its bright red skin, crisp flesh, and lower sugar content. Vietnam is focusing on branding its seedless lychee for the premium market, both domestically and internationally, despite challenges in large-scale cultivation due to specific climate and farming requirements.