The launch signifies the quality and credibility of Vietnamese fruits in global markets, highlighting the relentless efforts by government agencies and businesses to open formal export channels into this highly demanding market.

A formal launch event was held at Lotte Mart Jamsil, attended by representatives from the Vietnam Trade Office in the RoK, Hoang Huy Co., Ltd. (the first Vietnamese pomelo exporter to RoK), and Lotte Group distribution partners. The occasion celebrated years of bilateral collaboration and provided a platform to discuss the sustainable development of Vietnam’s agricultural supply chains amid global uncertainties.

According to the Plant Protection Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam began negotiating market access for pomelos in 2018. Progress accelerated post-COVID-19, and after a series of pest risk assessments and technical inspections, the RoK officially approved imports in August 2024.

In September 2024, Hoang Huy Co., Ltd. successfully exported the first batch of 5 tonnes. The company aims to ship 500 tonnes in 2025, with an estimated value of 1.2 million USD. This sets a promising precedent for building a strong Vietnamese pomelo brand in the RoK, a market known for its strict food safety standards.

Lotte Mart Group praised the potential of Vietnamese pomelos, highlighting not only their distinctive flavour but also their ability to meet stringent technical standards. Following the trial distribution at the Jamsil branch, Lotte Mart will consider expanding the product’s availability across its entire system, provided consumer feedback is positive.

The Vietnam Trade Office and Embassy in the RoK reaffirmed their commitment to supporting exporters through market connections and trade facilitation.