A viral sensation

By sharing short videos of himself scaling trees to cut durians, Nguyen Trong Tan (26, from Tien Giang) has captivated millions on social media. His TikTok clips, typically 1-2 minutes long, have earned millions of views and hundreds of thousands of likes.

What draws viewers in is Tan’s expert technique and lightning speed. Armed with just a small knife, he taps the fruit with the knife handle, assesses its ripeness, and makes a quick, clean cut at the stem - leaving audiences mesmerized.

“I’ve been in this trade for eight years, and I’ve served as a lead cutter for nearly seven,” Tan said.

Durian is a high-value fruit, bringing in substantial profits for both growers and sellers. Skilled harvesters like Tan are in high demand and command impressive wages, as not everyone can master this delicate craft.

Raised in Cai Lay, Tien Giang - Vietnam’s “durian capital” - Tan was introduced to the art of tapping and cutting durians at a young age. At 18, he formally learned the trade. Once proficient, he and his friends formed a team of over 10 members, including tree climbers and ground catchers.

Over the years, his team has worked across durian orchards throughout the Mekong Delta, with Tan always in the lead role.

Mastering the cut

Tan’s primary job is to climb trees, tap the fruits, and identify those ripe enough for harvest. Though it may sound simple, the job requires experience and precise judgment to avoid costly errors.

“Not everyone can tell which fruits are mature enough or avoid issues like dry flesh or underdeveloped pods,” Tan explained.

With eight years of hands-on experience, Tan confidently claims, “Every tap I make is accurate; every cut is spot-on.” Just by tapping a few times, he can determine whether a durian meets harvesting standards.

“To qualify, a durian must be fully mature and flavorful. Typically, fruits with green skin and sharp spikes are better. But telling a young fruit from a ripe one isn’t easy - it takes personal experience, plus sensitivity in both touch and sight,” he said.

Tan starts work at 6 a.m. His team includes four lead cutters and several ground catchers. A typical shift can last until 6 p.m., or as late as 10-11 p.m. during peak harvest.

Work volume used to fluctuate seasonally, with occasional idle spells. But in the past 2-3 years, Tan has been cutting durians almost year-round, resting just 5-10 days during the off-season before heading to new regions.

Facing the challenges of the job

After the Mekong Delta harvest wrapped up, Tan’s team moved to the Southeast, currently working in durian orchards in Binh Phuoc and Dong Nai.

Each day, his team cuts around 10-20 tons of durians, meaning each cutter handles several tons daily, depending on the orchard and tree height.

“For every 10 tons, we earn 20 million VND (about $785), which is split among the team. Lead cutters receive a larger share,” Tan said.

For this young man from Tien Giang, it’s a rewarding wage. Additionally, the work allows for flexible hours and camaraderie among trusted teammates.

However, the job isn’t without its challenges. “High pay comes with high responsibility,” Tan acknowledged.

The team must ensure every harvested durian meets quality standards. If a mistake is made, the financial liability can be substantial. “Fortunately, this rarely happens to us,” he said.

Tan also works under harsh conditions, often enduring heavy rain or intense sun while perched high in trees.

“When the weather’s nice, it’s manageable. But storms are tough. And too much rain affects the fruit’s flesh quality, which can upset orchard owners,” he noted.

Sometimes, even during storms, the team must harvest ripening fruit that can’t wait. Constant tree-climbing takes a toll on his limbs, and unexpected incidents - like a falling ripe durian striking him - are part of the job.

Still, Tan takes it in stride. “Every job has its hardships,” he said.

He plans to stay in the trade a few more years. Once he’s financially ready, Tan hopes to open a durian shop in Ho Chi Minh City.

“Whether I’m cutting or selling, my life will always revolve around this fruit,” Tan said.

Thanh Minh

Photos: Provided by the subject