Vietnam Food Exports: Driving Global Agri-Trade Growth in 2024–25

Vietnam has emerged as one of the world’s most competitive agricultural exporters, supplying high-quality products such as coffee, rice, cashew nuts, seafood, and tropical fruits to global markets. The country’s rapid progress in the agricultural and food sector has not only strengthened its trade profile but also established Vietnam as a key player in international agri-food supply chains. According to Vietnam food exports data, the total export value reached a record-breaking $62.5 billion in 2024, marking a 19% year-on-year increase — an impressive achievement that reflects both resilience and strategic advancement.

In the first eight months of 2025, Vietnam food exports maintained strong momentum, surpassing $45 billion, up 12% from the previous year. These figures confirm Vietnam’s status as the 15th largest food exporter globally and the second-largest in Southeast Asia, as per global and Asian trade data. Despite challenges like price volatility and stricter import regulations, the sector continues to grow, showcasing Vietnam’s adaptability in a changing trade environment.

A Decade of Steady Growth in Vietnam Food Exports

Over the past decade, Vietnam’s agricultural and food exports have experienced consistent expansion. From $30.8 billion in 2014, exports climbed steadily to $62.5 billion by 2024. This growth trajectory demonstrates not only an increase in production capacity but also improved market diversification and quality standards.

According to Vietnam trade data, the nation achieved a trade surplus of nearly $18 billion in 2024, largely driven by strong performance in agricultural, forestry, and fishery products. The first half of 2025 continued this trend, generating around $33.5 billion in exports, with the agriculture segment contributing more than $18 billion alone.

Vietnam’s Leading Food Export Categories

The backbone of Vietnam food exports lies in its diversified product range, which includes several globally dominant commodities:

• Seafood (HS Code 03) – Valued at $10.07 billion in 2024, seafood exports remain one of Vietnam’s most important sectors. Shrimp ($3.8 billion), pangasius ($1.8 billion), and tuna ($1.1 billion) dominate the export portfolio.

• Fruits and Vegetables (HS Code 07 & 08) – Reaching $7.12 billion, driven mainly by durian, dragon fruit, and mangoes, with China being the top buyer.

• Rice (HS Code 1006) – At $5.75 billion, Vietnam remains the world’s second-largest rice exporter, supplying key markets like the Philippines, China, and Indonesia.

• Coffee (HS Code 0901) – Generating $5.47 billion, primarily from Robusta beans. The EU, U.S., and Japan are the largest importers.

• Cashew Nuts (HS Code 0801) – Valued at $4.37 billion, Vietnam controls over 75% of global cashew kernel exports.

• Spices & Pepper (HS Code 0910) – Worth $1.6 billion combined, with Vietnam leading global exports in pepper, cinnamon, and star anise.

Each of these categories reflects the nation’s strong integration into the global food supply chain. The top food export companies in Vietnam play a crucial role in ensuring consistent quality and compliance with international standards.

Top Food Export Companies in Vietnam

Vietnam’s export success is anchored by a group of highly efficient and globally recognized companies. The Vietnam food exporters database highlights several major players dominating the market.

These top food export companies in Vietnam maintain rigorous quality control, invest in sustainability certifications, and follow global food safety standards. Their ability to innovate and adapt to international demand has positioned Vietnam as a reliable supplier in global agri-trade networks.

Vietnam’s Key Export Destinations

According to recent Vietnam export data, the top markets for Vietnamese food products include:

1. United States – $10 billion (16% of total exports)

2. China – $9.5 billion (15%)

3. Japan – $3.2 billion (5%)

4. South Korea – $2.7 billion (4%)

5. Netherlands – $2.5 billion (4%)

6. Germany – $2.1 billion (3%)

7. Philippines – $2 billion (3%)

8. Thailand – $1.8 billion (3%)

9. UAE – $1.5 billion (2%)

10. Indonesia – $1.4 billion (2%)

This diverse market base reflects Vietnam’s success in balancing traditional partners like China and the U.S. with new growth regions such as the Middle East and ASEAN countries.

Challenges Affecting Vietnam Food Exports

Despite its achievements, Vietnam food exports face several challenges:

• Price Volatility: Commodity price fluctuations in coffee, rice, and seafood can impact revenue stability.

• Regulatory Barriers: Stringent EU and U.S. import standards for food safety, traceability, and sustainability add compliance costs.

• Logistics Issues: Limited cold storage infrastructure and high shipping costs can reduce competitiveness.

• Climate Risks: Droughts and floods in the Mekong Delta pose threats to production and supply reliability.

• Global Competition: Rivals like Thailand, Brazil, and India are intensifying competition across similar product categories.

Addressing these issues is essential for maintaining momentum and sustaining growth in Vietnam food exports over the next decade.

Opportunities and Strategic Directions

To strengthen its market position, Vietnam is taking several strategic steps:

• Diversification of Markets: Increasing focus on Japan, Korea, and Middle Eastern markets to reduce reliance on China.

• Value-Added Exports: Expanding into processed and branded products such as roasted coffee, packaged seafood, and organic rice.

• Sustainability and Certification: Promoting geographical indications and green production practices to attract eco-conscious consumers.

• Digital Integration: Leveraging reliable data from a Vietnam trade data provider helps exporters make informed decisions, analyze demand, and identify new markets.

By focusing on value addition and sustainable production, Vietnam food exporters can continue enhancing competitiveness in the global arena.

Vietnam Food Exports Outlook for 2025–26

Looking ahead, the government’s target for 2025 is $64–65 billion in total agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports. Growth will likely be led by seafood, coffee, and processed food segments. The United States and Japan are expected to remain growth drivers, while China’s performance may fluctuate depending on import policies.

By 2026, emphasis will shift toward sustainable production, digital traceability, and brand-based marketing. With rising consumer demand for transparency and ethical sourcing, top food export companies Vietnam will need to strengthen compliance with environmental and quality standards.

The outlook remains optimistic — if Vietnam continues to innovate, enhance logistics, and diversify its export base, it will not only retain its global standing but also expand its role as a trusted supplier in the international food trade network.

Conclusion

In summary, Vietnam food exports have evolved into a pillar of the national economy, reflecting resilience, innovation, and global integration. Despite challenges, Vietnam’s agricultural and food export performance in 2024–25 highlights a strong foundation for sustainable growth. Supported by data-driven insights from trusted Vietnam trade data providers and powered by the expertise of leading Vietnam food exporters, the country is poised to sustain its growth trajectory and strengthen its global influence in agri-food trade.

As the world demands more sustainable, safe, and traceable food sources, Vietnam’s journey from a regional supplier to a global food powerhouse stands as a remarkable success story — and an inspiring model for emerging economies worldwide.