Dragon fruit (pitaya) is experiencing a significant shortage in both domestic and international markets. The root causes behind this scarcity are largely objective and beyond the control of growers or exporters. Let’s explore the key external factors driving the current supply crunch.
1. Off-Season Production Cycle
Dragon fruit is a seasonal crop, and the current period falls into the natural off-season. During this time, flowering and fruit development slow down considerably without artificial lighting or interventions. As a result, overall volume decreases sharply, leading to a temporary market shortage.
2. Extreme Weather Conditions
Unpredictable and extreme weather has disrupted the normal growth cycle of dragon fruit. In several key growing regions of Vietnam, unusually high temperatures and inconsistent rainfall have negatively impacted flowering rates and fruit quality. These conditions have significantly reduced harvest volumes compared to the same period last year.
3. Increased Global Demand
While supply has dropped, international demand has continued to grow. Countries like China, the UAE, and Europe are increasing their purchases of Vietnamese dragon fruit due to shifting consumer preferences toward tropical fruits. This demand surge puts extra pressure on already-limited supplies, especially during the off-season.
4. High Freight Rates and Shipping Bottlenecks
Global logistics disruptions are still affecting the fresh produce supply chain. Limited container availability, port congestion, and rising freight costs are delaying shipments and reducing the efficiency of supply flows. Even when fruit is available, getting it to market has become slower and more expensive.
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