Arabfields, Meriem Senouci, Correspondent, Hanoï, Vietnam — Vietnamese authorities have expanded a high profile corruption investigation into the country’s lucrative durian export industry after detaining a deputy agriculture minister and several other officials accused of abusing their positions to influence export certification procedures.

Investigators allege that senior officials approved unauthorized policies and manipulated certification processes that allowed selected businesses to gain unfair advantages in the export market. The case has raised concerns among growers and exporters who depend heavily on overseas sales, particularly to China, Vietnam’s largest destination for fresh durian shipments.

For farmers in the Mekong Delta and other key producing regions, the investigation comes at a sensitive time. Many growers say they have invested heavily in meeting stricter quality and phytosanitary standards required by international buyers. Some worry that the scandal could temporarily slow export approvals, while others hope stronger oversight will create a more transparent system that benefits legitimate producers.

Vietnam’s durian industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. By 2026, the country remains one of the world’s fastest growing durian exporters, with China purchasing more than 95 percent of Vietnam’s export volume. Between 2021 and 2025, Vietnam exported over three million tonnes of fresh durian along with nearly 190,000 tonnes of frozen fruit, highlighting the sector’s growing importance to rural incomes and national agricultural revenue.

Officials say the investigation focuses on alleged bribery, document falsification and irregular licensing practices that may have caused significant financial losses while damaging confidence in Vietnam’s agricultural certification system. Several individuals linked to inspection and certification activities have now been placed under investigation as authorities continue to examine the approval process for export shipments.

Agricultural analysts believe the government’s response reflects increasing pressure to protect Vietnam’s reputation in international markets. As importing countries tighten food safety and traceability requirements, maintaining confidence in certification systems has become essential for preserving access to key export destinations.

Looking ahead, industry experts expect Vietnam to introduce stronger digital monitoring, stricter inspection procedures and greater transparency across its agricultural export network. If these reforms are implemented effectively, analysts believe the country could reinforce buyer confidence, reduce opportunities for corruption and support continued growth in durian exports over the coming years despite the disruption caused by the current investigation.