Vietnam suspended the entry of Chilean Fruit in 2015. However, it reopened for Chilean table grapes in 2016 and 4,5 years later, on 11th of August 2020 on the HMM BLESSING V. 010W, the first container of Chilean apples arrived at Hai Phong port after the Chilean government achieved the re-entry to Vietnam.

"Aartsen Asia cooperates with its partner Frusan on the whole range of Chilean Fresh Fruits for the Asian market. At time of loading the market for apples in Vietnam was under pressure due to strict but successful government measures to counter the impact of COVID 19 but which also leaded to less buying power. Combined with a high volume of New Zealand apples, the stock in storages was considerable. However, the expectation was that the market would recover for arrivals mid-August onwards when the volume from especially New Zealand is lower and local lychees are finished.

"The arrival of the Fujis in excellent condition was well received by the Vietnamese consumers due to their higher sweetness level compared with Fuji apples from other countries. The sales plan is to distribute the fruit evenly across different cities in Vietnam and held tasting events in order to promote the Frusan brand and Chilean apples in general. We see a promising future ahead!"

"Vietnam became a key market for Aartsen Asia with its growing population of 96 million inhabitants and its fast-developing economy. We are active in this country since 2013 and distribute a wide range of fruit all year round. Originally our focus was mainly on the bigger cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, but we changed our strategy and nowadays we are active in the 2nd tier cities Vinh, Tan Hao and Da Nang as well. We hope that, after the re entry of Chilean apples, Chilean cherries can gain access to Vietnam soon as well."