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Japan has given the green light to imports of Cat Chu mangoes from Vietnam, reports Vietnam News.

The first mango consignment is due to be shipped on 17 September, and is the second fresh fruit category from Vietnam to gain access to Japan since 2009 after dragonfruit.

It took Vietnam's mango sector five years to meet Japanese import requirements, which stipulate, among other things, the fruit is hot water treated prior to export in facilities approved by Japan, the report said.

Vietnam is now urging Japan to accept its red-fleshed dragonfruit and fresh lychees.

Cat Chu mangoes account for over 70 per cent of Vietnam's mango production, and will now also be shipped to Australia, according to the report.

New Zealand, meanwhile, has opened its doors to Vietnamese rambutan, Vietnam News said.