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Vietnam’s Pepper Exports Heat Up with 21.7% Rise in Five Months, US Leading the Demand

In the first five months of 2026, Vietnam saw a significant increase in its pepper exports, with 122,600 tonnes exported, marking a rise of 21.7% from the previous year. The collective value of these shipments was US$789.2 million, representing a 13.9% surge year-on-year, as reported by the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association.

Primary Markets and Export Performance

The United States emerged as the leading market, accounting for nearly 24.5% of the total exports, or 30,000 tonnes, marking a growth of 30.2% from the previous year. China followed closely with a staggering 145.4% rise, importing 14,636 tonnes.

In terms of regional consumption, Asia led as the largest consumer, importing 56,570 tonnes, or 46% of the total product, marking a 24% rise year-on-year. Europe also saw a rise in imports by 5.1%, totalling 25,176 tonnes. Remarkably, the Netherlands boosted their imports by 51.6%, but Germany saw a 30.7% drop.

The increase in exports can be attributed to a strong performance in the first and early second quarters, coupled with increased demand from major markets amid a tightening global supply. However, in May, pepper export volume experienced a decline of 18.9% from April and 4.8% year-on-year, totalling 25,180 tonnes worth $166.2 million.

Import Trends and Other Exports

On the import side, Vietnam purchased 38,086 tonnes of pepper valued at $217.8 million, marking a 69% rise year-on-year in volume and 60% in value. Cambodia emerged as the primary supplier, accounting for 54.6% of imports, followed by Brazil with a 29.1% share.

In addition to pepper, Vietnam’s cinnamon exports also witnessed growth. The country exported 48,686 tonnes of the spice, totalling $124.3 million in the first five months, marking a 2% increase in volume and a 1% increase in value from the previous year. Asia accounted for 67.8% of these exports, while the Americas constituted 22.4%.

Questions & Answers

What was the total volume and value of pepper exported from Vietnam in the first five months of 2026?
122,600 tonnes of pepper were exported, with a value of US$789.2 million.

Which countries were the main buyers of Vietnamese pepper?
The United States and China were the main buyers, importing 30,000 tonnes and 14,636 tonnes respectively.

What trends were observed in Vietnam’s cinnamon exports?
Vietnam’s cinnamon exports also saw a rise, with 48,686 tonnes exported, valued at $124.3 million. Asia and the Americas were the main markets for Vietnamese cinnamon.

June 10, 2026
Unlocking New Markets: Vietnam Secures Green Light for Pomelo and Lemon Exports to China

A recent agreement has paved the way for Vietnamese pomelos and lemons to be exported to China. This phytosanitary requirements protocol was formalized between Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and the General Administration of Customs of China. The agreement unfolded during a state visit to China by To Lam, who is the Party General Secretary and State President of Vietnam.

Phytosanitary Requirements and Protocols

The newly agreed protocol stipulates that all areas cultivating and facilities packaging pomelos and lemons for export to China have to be registered with the Ministry of Agriculture. Furthermore, they must gain approval from both the Ministry and China’s customs. These facilities are mandated to enforce stringent pest control measures to ensure the quality of the produce.

The cultivation areas are required to adhere to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) requirements. These requirements demand fruit to be bagged at least 60 days prior to harvest and the use of traps to combat fruit flies.

The packaging facilities must maintain sanitary conditions and appropriate functional zoning. Fruits are required to be sorted, classified, and cleaned to remove any diseased or pest-infected fruits, as well as any plant debris and soil residues.

The Impact of the Agreement

The Ministry has cited this agreement as the result of structured technical negotiations between plant protection and quarantine agencies of both nations. These discussions have been ongoing since 2019.

The agreement signifies an important shift towards transparent, standards-compliant official export channels and a more sophisticated bilateral cooperation framework, amidst growing Vietnam–China agricultural trade.

China continues to be a crucial market with strong demand and potential for Vietnamese fruit exports. Building on the success of other exports, pomelos and lemons are expected to increase their market share, consolidate their position, and boost overall export growth.

The ministry has expressed its commitment to working closely with localities, associations, businesses, and producers to effectively put the protocol into practice. This will include guidelines on regulations, standardizing cultivation areas and packaging facilities, and strengthening inspections to guarantee full compliance with Chinese requirements.

Vietnam’s Agricultural Advantage

Pomelos and lemons are among Vietnam’s most successful agricultural products. Vietnam currently cultivates pomelos on approximately 106,000 hectares, positioning itself as a major global producer of the fruit.

Questions & Answers

What does the new protocol between Vietnam and China involve?
The protocol involves the export of Vietnamese pomelos and lemons to China. It stipulates that all cultivation areas and packaging facilities for these fruits must be registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and approved by both the Ministry and China’s customs.

What requirements must the Vietnamese farms and packaging facilities meet under the new protocol?
The farms must adhere to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) requirements, which includes bagging fruit 60 days before harvest and using traps for fruit flies. The packaging facilities must maintain cleanliness and appropriate functional zoning.

How will this protocol impact the Vietnam-China agricultural trade?
The protocol signifies a shift towards transparent, standards-compliant official export channels and provides a more sophisticated bilateral cooperation framework. It is expected to boost the market share of Vietnamese pomelos and lemons in China and strengthen the overall growth of fruit exports from Vietnam to China.

April 20, 2026
Vietnam’s Dragon Fruit Exports Soar: Thailand and Middle East Demand Spikes in 2026

The initial two months of 2026 witnessed a 14% annual increase in Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports, amounting to US$108.5 million. This surge was primarily driven by a significant hike in deliveries to Thailand and the Middle East.

Vietnam’s Dragon Fruit Export Market

Cargo to Thailand experienced an over 2.7-fold increase, amounting to $9.2 million, while shipments to the United Arab Emirates grew by 57% to reach a value of $3.3 million.

China, however, retained its position as the largest buyer, accounting for $66.5 million of all exports, marking a 5% increase in comparison to previous years. On the other hand, demand from the U.S. saw a considerable decrease, falling by 39% to a value of $4 million.

These figures from the initial two months of the year could indicate a resurgence of shipments, pointing towards a potential recovery following a period of sustained decline.

Historical Trends in Dragon Fruit Exports

Between 2014 and 2018, the annual worth of dragon fruit exports consistently exceeded $1 billion. However, shifts in consumption patterns and increased competition led to a steady decline in the succeeding years.

The total worth of exports in the first 11 months of the previous year stood at $485.2 million, corresponding to the lowest recorded value since 2014.

Production and Supply Factors

Dragon fruit in Vietnam is predominantly harvested between May and September, although some off-season cultivation occurs in January and February. However, supply has been falling in recent years as farmers have transitioned towards more profitable crops.

Adverse weather conditions have also negatively impacted yield. Widespread flooding towards the end of last year resulted in fungal diseases in plants, significantly affecting dragon fruit production, particularly in Binh Thuan Province, a key cultivation region.

As a consequence of dwindling supply, farm-gate prices have seen a rise. During the first two months of this year, white-fleshed dragon fruit was sold for VND10,000-15,000 (US$0.38-0.57) per kilogram, and the red-fleshed variety was priced at VND15,000-25,000.

Questions & Answers

What led to the surge in Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports in early 2026?
A significant hike in deliveries to Thailand and the Middle East primarily drove the increase in exports.

Which is the largest market for Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports?
China is the largest market, accounting for $66.5 million of all exports.

What are the factors impacting the supply of dragon fruit in Vietnam?
A shift by farmers towards more profitable crops and adverse weather conditions causing fungal diseases in plants have led to a decline in dragon fruit supply.

April 16, 2026
Vietnam’s Seafood Exports Surge by 8% in Q1 2026, Powered by Strong Chinese Demand

In the first quarter of 2026, Vietnam saw a nearly 8% increase in seafood exports, amounting to a substantial US$2.64 billion. A primary factor fueling this growth was robust demand from China.

China’s Role in Vietnam’s Seafood Industry

During this period, China remained the central seafood importer from Vietnam, with purchases amounting to approximately $764 million. This figure represents an almost 45% year-on-year increase. In March alone, the country’s seafood imports exceeded $250 million, a growth of over 50%. Not only is China the largest seafood importer, but it is also the biggest consumer of Vietnamese pangasius.

The shrimp category witnessed significant growth, largely attributed to lobster exports. Despite this, exports of whiteleg shrimp, a key product in the U.S. and EU markets, remained consistent.

Other seafood types, including crab, swimming crab, and molluscs, experienced increased demand across Asian markets. Moreover, tilapia exports skyrocketed by 190% year-on-year, reaching an estimated $35 million in the first quarter.

The Impact of Other Markets

China’s robust performance was instrumental in maintaining overall sectoral growth despite a drop in exports to several other markets. Seafood exports to the U.S. decreased by over 10% in the same quarter. This decline can be attributed to weak demand and technical barriers, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s Certificates of Analysis requirements and anti-dumping duties on shrimp. There was also a similar decline in exports to Japan and South Korea.

While exports to the EU remained largely stable, those destined for ASEAN, Australia, and several emerging markets maintained their growth momentum.

Driving Factors and Predictions

According to Le Hang, the deputy secretary general of the association, several factors contributed to China’s emergence as the primary growth driver. These include seasonal consumption, steady demand, and advantageous logistics conditions.

Increased consumption during the Lunar New Year boosted imports of whole shrimp, live seafood, and premium products. This seasonal surge contributed to a sharp increase in high-value items like lobster.

Despite this growth, Hang warned that these figures may primarily reflect seasonal trends rather than a long-term structural recovery. This is because the increased exports were partly driven by stockpiling and festive demand, which could lead to a moderation of growth in the upcoming months.

The seafood industry in Vietnam also faces intensifying competitive pressure, particularly from major suppliers like Ecuador. This competition underscores the need for diversification in Vietnam’s seafood industry.

However, the association remains optimistic. They project that seafood exports will continue to grow in the second quarter, with shrimp and pangasius expected to be the primary growth drivers.

Questions & Answers

What was the value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026?
The value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026 was US$2.64 billion.

Who is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood?
China is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood.

What has been the impact of seasonal consumption on Vietnam’s seafood exports?
Seasonal consumption, particularly during the Lunar New Year, has led to a surge in imports of various seafood items, contributing to the overall growth in Vietnam’s seafood exports.

April 14, 2026
Strawberry Boom: Vietnam’s Berry Exports Skyrocket 2000-fold in 2026, Unlocking New Potential in Fruit Market

In the opening months of 2026, the export value of strawberries soared to a whopping US$3.4 million. This figure is a substantial increase from the previous year, with a growth margin of 2,000 times. Despite the significant leap, strawberry exports only made up a minor 0.34% of the total fruit exports as per the customs data.

Yearly Export Overview

Throughout the entirety of the previous year, the export value of the fruit totaled only $1.74 million. This is a considerable leap from the meager $6,000 earned from exports in 2021. Dang Phuc Nguyen, the General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, pointed out that Vietnamese strawberries make their way to various international markets. These include China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the EU, and the Middle East.

The majority of the exported strawberries were either frozen, freeze-dried, or processed, as these forms are easier to preserve and transport. Nguyen emphasized the considerable growth potential of this product if improvements can be made in quality and preservation techniques.

Major Production Regions

Lam Dong Province in the Central Highlands and the Son La province in the northwestern region are the leading producers of strawberries that meet GlobalGAP quality standards. Son La covers a wide 600 hectares with strawberry cultivation, producing around 10,000 tons per year, while Lam Dong utilizes a smaller 170-hectare area.

Several other regions, including Hanoi, have begun to cultivate strawberries using smart farming models. Nguyen Xuan Nam, a representative of the Xuan Que Strawberry Cooperative in Son La, stated that the cooperative’s 17 members collectively manage a 50-hectare area, which produces an annual yield of 1,250 tons.

Utilization and Market Challenges

The harvested strawberries are typically processed into wine, syrup, and dried products. These goods are either locally distributed to Ho Chi Minh City or exported to international markets like Russia and Thailand. However, Nam reported that domestic sales and exports have been sluggish due to high yields and low market prices, causing financial losses for numerous strawberry growers.

To counter these market challenges, Nam urged the development and implementation of policies to support advancements in preservation technologies, which would stimulate export growth. He believes that promoting exports at stable prices could provide farmers with a more predictable and secure income.

As per the Fruit Association’s Nguyen, addressing challenges in preservation, logistics, and market expansion could pave the way for strawberries to become a major agricultural export product for Vietnam. This would help the country diversify its export portfolio, which currently mainly comprises traditional fruits like durian, mango, dragon fruit, and banana.

Questions & Answers

What is the export value of strawberries in the first two months of 2026?
The export value of strawberries in the first two months of 2026 was US$3.4 million.

What forms of strawberries are mainly exported?
Mainly, frozen, freeze-dried, or processed strawberries are exported due to their ease of preservation and transport.

What are the primary challenges facing the strawberry export market in Vietnam?
The primary challenges include preservation, logistics, and market expansion. There is also a need for stable pricing to provide predictability and security for farmers.

April 3, 2026
Durian and Lobster Exports to China Skyrocket: A Boost for Vietnam’s Agro-Forestry and Fisheries Sector

In the initial two months of 2026, durian exports to China have seen a significant upsurge, increasing by 469% compared to the previous year. Lobster exports have also witnessed a substantial rise, growing by 65% during the same period. The sale of durian fruit alone contributed $300 million to the economy, aiding the steady progress of fruit and vegetable exports while other goods experienced a downturn.

High-Quality Durian and Lobster Exports

High-quality Monthong durian is being purchased at orchards for VND140,000–150,000 ($5.7) per kilogram, while Ri6 durian is priced at VND80,000–84,000, indicating a 30–50% increase from the previous year’s rate.

Lobster exports, particularly of the green variety, have brought $259 million to the economy, growing by 32%.

China continues to be an important market for fresh produce, particularly in the period surrounding the Lunar New Year, which typically falls between mid-January and mid-February.

Increasing Competitiveness and Demand

The competitiveness of lobsters has been enhanced due to improvements in quality, increased transparency concerning their origin, and better traceability.

The Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association’s Secretary General, Dang Phuc Nguyen, attributes the surge in durian exports to the resolution of quarantine-related issues and seasonal advantages.

While several countries have concluded their fruit harvest period, Vietnam’s off-season supply coincides with China’s peak demand during the Lunar New Year, triggering a significant increase in orders.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment credits the growth to sustained demand for Vietnam’s agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, indicating promising opportunities for market expansion.

Challenges and Constraints

Despite these positive figures, there are challenges to overcome. The supply of fisheries, for instance, is limited. A number of shrimp farmers in the south-central region have reported that storms towards the end of the last year affected their farms.

Additionally, this year’s off-season durian production has decreased by 30–40% owing to adverse weather conditions.

Questions & Answers

What has caused the increase in lobster competitiveness?
Improvements in quality, greater transparency about origin, and higher traceability have all contributed to the increased competitiveness of lobsters.

Why is there a surge in durian exports to China?
The rise in durian exports is attributed to the resolution of quarantine-related bottlenecks and seasonal advantages, combined with Vietnam’s off-season supply coinciding with China’s peak demand during the Lunar New Year.

What challenges are currently faced by the fishery and fruit sectors in Vietnam?
The fishery sector is struggling with limited supply due to storms that affected shrimp farms in the south-central region last year. The fruit sector, particularly the durian industry, has seen a decrease in off-season production by 30-40% due to unfavorable weather conditions.

March 20, 2026
Vietnam’s Rice Exports Surge 5% in Early 2026: Philippines, China Lead Demand

In the first two months of 2026, Vietnam saw a 5% increase in rice exports from the previous year, amounting to about 1.3 million tonnes. Despite the increase in quantity, the total value of these shipments experienced a year-on-year decrease of 11.2%, bringing the total value to $599.3 million. This data was reported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

Average Export Price

The average export price for the period was measured at an estimated $464.1 per tonne, which represents a 15.4% decrease from the previous year.

Major Markets

The primary market for Vietnam’s rice exports was the Philippines, which accounted for almost half of the total exports (47.6%). China and Ghana were the subsequent importers, contributing 18.3% and 8.9% respectively to the total rice exports.

In the first two months, exports to the Philippines grew by 17.6% and shipments to China witnessed a surge of 5.8 times. However, exports to Ghana declined by 31%.

Export Growth and Decline

Out of the 15 largest export markets, the most substantial export growth was recorded in China, where shipments increased by 5.8 times. On the other hand, exports to Côte d’Ivoire experienced the most significant drop, with a decrease of 90.9%.

Current Rice Prices and Trading Activity

Vietnam’s 5% broken rice is reportedly priced at up to $365 per tonne, which is consistent with the price last week. Trading activity has seen a slowdown as buyers anticipate a further decline in prices. Concurrently, domestic supply has been increasing due to the peak harvest of the winter-spring crop.

Southern Ports and Global Factors

Preliminary data indicates that southern ports managed over 382,000 tonnes of rice in February, with the majority being shipped to the Philippines and African markets.

Although the conflict in the Middle East has not directly impacted Vietnam’s rice shipments to Africa, traders have reported a surge in freight costs due to elevated insurance premiums and fuel prices.

Questions & Answers

What was the percentage increase in Vietnam’s rice exports in the first two months of 2026?
There was a 5% increase in rice exports from Vietnam in the first two months of 2026.

Which country remained the top market for Vietnam’s rice exports?
The Philippines remained the top market for Vietnam’s rice exports, accounting for 47.6% of total exports.

How has the conflict in the Middle East affected Vietnam’s rice exports?
While the conflict in the Middle East has not directly influenced Vietnam’s rice shipments to Africa, it has led to a surge in freight costs because of higher insurance premiums and fuel prices.

March 10, 2026
Vietnam’s Seafood Exports Soar 13% in January Fueled by Asian Markets

In January, exports of seafood from Vietnam totaled US$874 million, a year-on-year increase of 13%. The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers noted that this boost was largely due to demand from Asian markets, particularly China, Japan, and ASEAN. Key product groups like pangasius, a type of catfish, as well as squid and octopus, contributed significantly to these robust export figures.

Decline in U.S. Shipments

However, U.S. shipments experienced a decline, especially in tuna exports. The downturn was attributed to factors such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s impact and difficulties in obtaining certificates of analysis for seafood exports, a crucial step in the export process.

China Leads as Largest Seafood Market

China solidified its position as Vietnam’s biggest seafood market in January; export values reached nearly $250 million, marking a 28.7% surge year-on-year. This uptick is mainly due to increased shrimp demand ahead of the Lunar New Year, a period when the consumption of premium seafood products usually escalates. Many businesses also seized the opportunity of this festive demand to increase their lobster shipments.

Anticipated Seafood Export Downturn in February

The Association anticipates a downturn in seafood exports in February. This prediction is based on disruptions to production and logistics during the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, persisting regulatory issues in the U.S., and a potential decrease in Chinese demand following an early period of stockpiling.

Questions & Answers

What caused the 13% increase in Vietnam’s seafood exports in January?
The main factors contributing to this increase were robust demand from Asian markets, particularly China, Japan, and ASEAN, coupled with strong performance from key product groups like pangasius and squid and octopus.

Why was there a decline in U.S. shipments of Vietnamese seafood?
The decline in U.S. shipments can be attributed to the effects of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and challenges in obtaining certificates of analysis for seafood exports.

Why is a downturn in seafood exports anticipated in February?
The predicted downturn is due to potential disruptions in production and logistics during the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, ongoing regulatory challenges in the U.S., and an expected drop in Chinese demand after an early period of stockpiling.

February 6, 2026
Vietnam’s Agricultural Exports to China Skyrocket by 66%: Exploring the $1.5 Billion Surge in January

In January, the exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products from Vietnam to China saw a significant increase of 66% compared to the previous year, reaching a total value of US$1.5 billion. China established itself as the largest market for these sectors, contributing to 23% of the total $6.5 billion worth of shipments – a 29.5% rise.

Key Exports to China

The primary exports to China included durian, banana, dragon fruit, and jackfruit, with a combined export value of $480 million. China was the leading buyer of Vietnam’s cassava, accounting for 92.6% of purchases. It also purchased 75% of Vietnam’s rubber and 50% of its cashew exports. The country was the third-largest market for Vietnam’s fishery products, following the U.S. and Japan.

Growth in Fruit and Vegetable Exports

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the highest export growth was seen in the fruits and vegetables sector. The export value of these products doubled to $750 million, with marked increases in shipments going to the U.S. and Malaysia.

Rise in Cashew and Pepper Exports

Cashew exports were the second-highest growth category, with an increase of 70% that brought the total export value to $434 million. Pepper exports also saw a significant boost, rising by 53% to reach $133 million.

Questions & Answers

What was the percentage increase in Vietnam’s exports to China year-on-year in January?
The exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products from Vietnam to China rose by 66% year-on-year in January.

Which were the main products exported by Vietnam to China?
The main exports to China were durian, banana, dragon fruit, and jackfruit, along with cashew, rubber, and cassava.

Which products saw the highest growth in exports?
Fruits and vegetables saw the highest export growth, doubling to $750 million. The second-highest growth was seen in cashew exports, which rose by 70% to $434 million.

February 6, 2026
Vietnam’s Durian Domination: Record-Breaking $3.8B Exports Propel Fruit to Top of Global Market

Vietnam’s durian exports reached a new high last year, with the total value reaching US$3.86 billion. This figure is more than 20% higher than the previous year’s record, making durian the most significant export among all fruits and vegetables from Vietnam. The country’s customs data reveal that durian exports contributed over 45% to the total value of $8.56 billion.

Other Top Fruit and Vegetable Exports

Durian was not the only fruit of note in Vietnam’s export list. Fresh coconuts registered an impressive growth rate of 36.6%, although the total export value of $534 million placed it far behind durian. Dragon fruit, another significant export, earned $526 million, despite a slight decrease in its export value.

Adaptation to Market Requirements Spurs Growth

According to Dang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruits & Vegetables Association, the increase in durian exports is due to Vietnamese businesses’ ability to meet stricter quality standards and other conditions set by some markets. However, he emphasized the importance of consistent quality control and market expansion for sustained growth.

China – The Largest Market for Vietnam’s Durian Exports

China continues to be the most significant market for Vietnam’s durian exports, a position strengthened by agreements signed last year permitting the export of frozen durians and fresh coconuts from Vietnam. In addition to China, shipments to the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Europe also experienced substantial growth. Looking ahead, the association anticipates fruit and vegetable exports to reach between $9 and $10 billion this year.

Questions & Answers

What was the total value of Vietnam’s durian exports last year?

The total value of Vietnam’s durian exports last year was US$3.86 billion.

What contributed to the growth of durian exports from Vietnam?

The growth in durian exports from Vietnam is attributed to businesses’ ability to adapt to stricter quality standards and other conditions imposed by some markets.

Which countries are the largest markets for Vietnam’s durian exports?

China is the largest market for Vietnam’s durian exports, followed by the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

January 27, 2026
Vietnam’s Fruit and Vegetable Exports Soar: $10B Target in Sight for 2026 Amid Global Trade Growth

According to industry experts, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports could hit the $10 billion mark as early as 2026, provided the current pace is sustained and structural issues are resolved. The total exports are projected to be in the range of $8-8.4 billion in 2025, marking a growth of 18% from the previous year, as reported by the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association.

Growth Amid Global Trade Volatility

The resilience and growth of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export sector in spite of ongoing global trade instability underscore the enhanced competitiveness of the nation’s agricultural products in global markets. This remarkable performance can be attributed to an array of beneficial conditions, including substantial recovery of demand in major markets such as China, the U.S., South Korea, Japan and the European Union. Furthermore, an increase in official export approvals for Vietnamese fruits to high-demand markets has created new avenues for growth.

Nguyen Thanh Binh, chairman of the association, indicated that the growth in exports in recent years has evolved from seasonal peaks into a consistent upward trend. An increased emphasis on quality, traceability, and compliance with market standards has aided Vietnamese produce in establishing a more stable presence within global supply chains.

Despite being the largest market and accounting for a significant proportion of shipments, China also poses the greatest challenges to the industry, as Binh noted.

Persistent Vulnerabilities

While there has been a robust increase in export value, market volatility and policy changes continue to cause disruptions in shipments to China. Dr. Nguyen Dinh Bich, an expert in agricultural economics, pointed out that the sector’s greatest vulnerability is seen in production organization. Despite the speedy growth, it lacks a firm grounding and without stronger connections from raw material sources to processing and distribution, the industry could be susceptible to changes such as tightened standards or altered regulations by major markets.

Learning from past instances of congestion at border gates remains crucial, particularly as importing countries continue to elevate their requirements regarding quarantine, food safety, and sustainability.

Striving for the $10 Billion Goal

Despite these challenges, the long-term prospects remain favorable. Riding on the wave of consistent double-digit growth in recent years and Vietnam’s position among the world’s top 25 trading nations, the association is confident that exports could reach $10 billion by 2026.

Many businesses deem this target achievable if existing roadblocks are overcome. A representative from the Tien Giang Vegetables and Fruits Joint Stock Company said that there remains potential for processed goods and premium fresh fruit. However, businesses require stable policies regarding raw material zones, logistics, and market access.

Logistics costs, particularly those related to cold-chain logistics, constitute a substantial portion of expenses, compromising competitiveness with regional counterparts.

Experts emphasize the necessity for comprehensive, long-term solutions, including focused farming zones, standardized production unit codes, and packing facilities certified in line with market demand. Diversifying export markets and increasing the share of processed goods are also seen as essential.

Binh further underscored that continued government support in areas such as market access, standardization, and credit and logistics infrastructure will be crucial to ensuring sustainable growth.

Questions & Answers

What are the main challenges to Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export industry?
The main challenges include market volatility, policy changes, high logistics costs, and the need for stronger connections from raw material sources to processing and distribution.

What are the proposed solutions to these challenges?
Proposed solutions include the creation of concentrated farming zones, standardization of production unit codes, certified packing facilities, diversification of export markets, and increased government support in various areas.

What is the projected value of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports in the near future?
Industry experts believe that Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports could reach $10 billion as early as 2026, given the current pace of growth and provided structural issues are properly addressed.

January 6, 2026
Billion-Dollar Boom: Vietnam’s Banana Exports Set to Topple Records

Vietnam’s banana exports could potentially surpass the US$1 billion threshold in the near future due to increased investment, value-chain-driven production, and expanded export markets, a number of experts and industry insiders have highlighted. They shared this optimistic outlook during a recent forum held in Ho Chi Minh City that focused on strategies for preventing and controlling Panama disease in bananas.

Current Production and Future Prospects

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Quoc Doanh, a previous deputy minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and current chairman of the Vietnam Gardening Association, shed light on the current state of banana production in Vietnam. He indicated that the country produces approximately 2.8 million tonnes of bananas annually.

Doanh pointed out that both the acreage dedicated to banana cultivation and the resultant yields have been on an upward trend. This growth reflects an increasing market demand and the sector’s expanding production capacity.

In 2024, bananas accounted for about $372-378 million of Vietnam’s total fruit exports, trailing behind durian, dragon fruit, and coconut. Nonetheless, Doanh believes the current contribution of bananas to the export economy is still quite modest relative to the sector’s production scale and overall potential.

Pham Quoc Liem, chairman of U&I Agriculture Corporation, shared his insights from a business point of view. He mentioned that the global banana market was worth approximately $15.3 billion in 2024, and is projected to balloon to $21 billion by 2030. Vietnam, despite being the ninth largest banana producer globally, has a relatively low share in banana exports.

Liem also highlighted that Vietnamese bananas command less than 40% market share in China, around 3% in Japan, and below 17% in South Korea. These figures suggest that there is a significant potential for growth in these markets.

Challenges Ahead

The banana industry in Vietnam, while having strong prospects, faces several challenges. Nguyen Quoc Manh, deputy director of the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection, stated that producers have limited access to market information. This problem is compounded by sharp fluctuations in prices, especially for shipments that fail to meet official export standards.

Furthermore, stricter technical barriers in some markets, particularly those related to plant quarantine and chemical residue limits, are intensifying pressure on both farmers and exporters.

Doanh identified plant disease as the greatest threat facing the sector, with Panama disease being the most dangerous. He called for a comprehensive strategy that encompasses plant varieties, cultivation techniques, production organization, and market development.

Tackling Panama Disease

Panama disease has been a major global issue since the mid-20th century, inflicting an estimated $1 billion in losses each year. Vietnam has experienced the effects of this disease since 2016-2017, leading to significant reductions in Cavendish banana production and forcing farmers to switch to alternative crops.

To mitigate the disease’s spread, Vietnam has participated in international cooperation programs such as the Asia-Pacific Banana Network. The country has also boosted its own research and training efforts.

Dr. Tran Ngoc Hung from the Fruit and Vegetable Research Institute emphasized that the most sustainable solution is developing banana varieties that are resistant to Panama disease.

Future Developments

Experts have concurred that with effective disease control, sustainable production restructuring, and stronger value chains, Vietnam’s banana industry can potentially become a billion-dollar export in the near future.

Manh projected that the total area dedicated to banana cultivation in Vietnam this year would be around 163,000-163,500 hectares, with an estimated annual output of 2.75 million tonnes.

Questions & Answers

– What is the current value of Vietnam’s banana exports?
In 2024, Vietnam’s banana exports were worth approximately $372-378 million.

– What challenges does the banana sector in Vietnam face?
The key challenges include limited access to market information for producers, price fluctuations, increasingly strict technical barriers in export markets, and threats from plant diseases, particularly Panama disease.

– What is the projected annual output of bananas in Vietnam?
Vietnam is projected to produce an estimated 2.75 million tonnes of bananas annually.

December 16, 2025
Vietnam’s Aquatic Exports Soar to Historic Heights, Anticipating $11.3B Record Despite Global Challenges

Vietnam’s seafood exports have consistently shown strong growth, and they are on track to reach an unprecedented high this year, despite certain obstacles. In the initial 11 months of 2025, the total revenue from seafood shipments was over US$10.5 billion, marking an increase of 14.6% compared to the same period in the previous year, as reported by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers.

Breakdown of Seafood Exports

Among the various types of seafood, shrimp was a significant contributor to the overall growth, generating $4.31 billion, representing a 21.2% increase year-on-year. Pangasius, a type of catfish, brought in over $2 billion, a rise of 9%, and tuna accounted for $855.7 million. Furthermore, molluscs, marine fish, and value-added products all experienced growth in the double digits.

Major Export Markets

Countries that are part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) were the primary recipients of Vietnam’s seafood exports, accounting for 27.2% of total shipments. The volume of exports to these nations grew by 24.3% year-on-year.

China and the EU also saw significant increases in shipments, with growth of 30.6% and 11.9% respectively. Additionally, exports to the U.S. increased by 8.1%, reaching $1.78 billion.

Le Hang, the deputy general secretary of the association, observed that the success of Vietnam’s seafood exports, in spite of an unpredictable global market, is a testament to the strategies adopted by its exporters, which are both proactive and adaptable.

Outlook for December and the Future

The exports are expected to experience a minor decline in December due to seasonal impacts and a cautious approach from exporters dealing with the U.S., as several businesses have chosen to temporarily limit new orders from the U.S. due to the impending guidance on its Marine Mammal Protection Act. However, shrimp shipments may not be significantly affected due to steady demand from Japan, the EU, and CPTPP nations.

Looking at the current data and end-of-year projections, it is anticipated that the annual revenue from seafood exports will reach somewhere between $11.2 and $11.3 billion, which would be the highest figure to date. Shrimp exports are projected to exceed $4.6 billion, thereby setting a new record, and it is forecasted that the shipments of pangasius will surpass $2.1 billion due to the recovering demand in Asia. Tuna exports are also estimated to surpass $900 million.

Questions & Answers

What factor contributed the most to the growth in Vietnam’s seafood exports?
The largest contributing factor to the growth in Vietnam’s seafood exports was shrimp, which generated $4.31 billion and saw a 21.2% increase compared to the previous year.

How have Vietnam’s seafood exports fared in the global market?
Despite uncertainties in the global market, Vietnam’s seafood exports have shown consistent growth due to the proactive and adaptable strategies of its exporters.

What is the projected revenue from Vietnam’s seafood exports this year?
Based on current data and end-of-year predictions, the annual revenue from seafood exports will likely reach between $11.2 and $11.3 billion, which would be the highest figure to date.

December 11, 2025
Spicing Up Profits: Vietnam Rakes in $1.5B from Pepper Exports amid High Demand

By the end of November, Vietnam had exported approximately 225,000 tonnes of pepper, generating over US$1.5 billion in revenue. Despite a 4.4% year-on-year reduction in export volume, there was a 24.4% increase in revenue due to robust demand and consistently high export prices, as reported by the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA).

Export Prices and Major Markets

In the period from January to November, the average export price stood at $6,618 per tonne for black pepper and $8,636 per tonne for white pepper. This represented a rise of $767 and $2,175 respectively, compared to the same period the previous year.

The U.S. continued to be Vietnam’s largest export market, accounting for 21.7% with 48,849 tonnes, despite a 28% decrease. This was followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) taking in 19,930 tonnes, China with 17,744 tonnes, India importing 11,750 tonnes, and Germany with 10,876 tonnes.

November Trade Figures

In November alone, Vietnam exported 18,582 tonnes of pepper, which included 16,322 tonnes of black pepper and 2,260 tonnes of white pepper. This resulted in earnings of $121.5 million. Compared to October, export volume decreased by 4.4% and value fell by 6.2%. However, compared to the previous year, there was a substantial increase of 16.5% in volume and 14.2% in value.

The average export price in November was $6,519 per tonne for black pepper and $8,072 per tonne for white pepper. This represents a 1.2% increase for black pepper, but a 3.8% decrease for white pepper on a month-to-month basis.

Imports of Pepper

On the import front, Vietnam imported 2,459 tonnes of pepper in November, valued at $15.2 million. This was a significant 47.2% increase from October but a steep 43.9% decrease compared to November 2024. Cambodia was the largest supplier in that month, providing 1,506 tonnes (61.2%), followed by Brazil with 475 tonnes and Indonesia with 210 tonnes.

By the close of November, Vietnam had spent a total of $252 million on importing 40,242 tonnes of pepper. The year-on-year increase in import volume was 22%, and the value rose by 62.3%, indicating stronger purchasing for re-export and processing. Brazil remained the largest supplier with 18,956 tonnes (an increase of 10.6%), followed by Cambodia with 11,211 tonnes (a surge of 65.5%). Meanwhile, Indonesia supplied 7,156 tonnes, a sharp decrease of 49.3%.

Questions & Answers

What was the total revenue from Vietnam’s pepper exports by the end of November?
Vietnam generated over US$1.5 billion from pepper exports by the end of November.

Which countries are the biggest importers of Vietnamese pepper?
The U.S., the United Arab Emirates, China, India, and Germany are the major importers of Vietnamese pepper.

Who are the main suppliers of pepper to Vietnam?
Brazil, Cambodia, and Indonesia are the primary suppliers of pepper to Vietnam.

December 9, 2025
Radiation-Safe Indonesian Shrimp Lands on US Shores: A Triumph in Seafood Exports

Indonesia has recommenced its shrimp exports to the United States with a hefty haul of 182 tonnes, valued at IDR25 billion, or approximately US$1.5 million. Importantly, these shipments come bearing certification of being free from Cesium-137 contamination.

Regaining Market Trust

Wahyu Sakti Trenggono, Indonesia’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, shared this encouraging news during an event at the Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta. He revealed that this marked the second such shipment since the Indonesian government confirmed that their shrimp products adhere to international radiation safety standards. This development seems to suggest that the confidence of the U.S. market in Indonesian shrimp is gradually being restored.

Ensuring Radiation Safety

Trenggono also explained that the assurance of the absence of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, was made possible through a collaborative effort between the fisheries ministry, the National Research and Innovation Agency, and the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency. This cross-institutional cooperation played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and international standard-compliant status of the shrimp exports.

Quality Assurance

The head of the MMAF Quality Assurance Agency, Ishartini, provided further insights into the certification process. She disclosed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) had duly recognized their agency as a certifying body as of October 31 this year. As a result, only fishery products that successfully pass the Certificate of Quality and Safety of Fisheries Products (SMKHP) and radiation tests will be approved for export with this certified status.

Following the approval, Indonesia had previously exported 121 containers of shrimp in October, after the fisheries ministry executed radiation scanning of a total of 920 containers destined for the U.S.

Questions & Answers

What is the significance of the recent shrimp shipment from Indonesia to the U.S.?
The shipment indicates a recovery of U.S. market trust in Indonesian shrimp products after they were certified free from Cesium-137 contamination.

Who issued the certification of freedom from Cesium-137 for the shrimp exports?
The certification was issued through a collaboration between Indonesia’s fisheries ministry, the National Research and Innovation Agency, and the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency.

What criteria must Indonesian fishery products meet to be approved for export to the U.S.?
Fishery products must pass the Certificate of Quality and Safety of Fisheries Products (SMKHP) and radiation tests to be considered for export to the U.S.

December 8, 2025