The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam and the General Administration of Customs of China have signed a protocol to increase the phytosanitary requirements for Vietnamese fresh watermelons exported to China. The new regulations, which include pest control, registration and approval of orchards and packaging plants, and the establishment of a quality management and traceability system, are expected to enhance trust and facilitate customs clearance. This is anticipated to boost Vietnam’s watermelon exports from US$50 million to a range of US$70-80 million per year.