December 10, 2025 | VnExpress |
Australian Kaimana lychees are selling quickly in Vietnam despite very high prices, as local lychee supplies are unavailable in the off-season. Imported mainly by air to preserve freshness, the premium fruit features dark red skin, thick crisp flesh, small seeds, and a sweet flavor. Retail prices reach about VND800,000 per kilogram, roughly seven times higher than top domestic varieties, though prices are about 20% lower than last year due to increased supply.
Fruit shop owners in Ho Chi Minh City report strong demand, with dozens of five-kilogram boxes selling rapidly since mid-November. However, most retailers import only limited quantities because the fruit has a short shelf life and high storage costs.
Kaimana is one of Australia’s most common export lychee varieties and is typically sold at premium prices in Australia as well. Its popularity in Vietnam is driven by timing, as Australian lychees arrive months after Vietnam’s main lychee season ends, allowing consumers to enjoy lychees year-round despite the high cost.
