Vietnam's Fruit and Vegetable Exports in 2025: Market Trends and Future Prospects

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable industry aims for a record-breaking $8 billion in exports by 2025, representing an 11% increase from 2024. However, the sector had a slow start in January 2025, with exports amounting to $374.5 million, marking a 29.2% decline from December 2024 and a 23.6% decrease from January 2024.

The decline was mainly due to the longer Lunar New Year holiday and stricter quality control regulations in key markets like China, the U.S., and the EU. Increased inspections for pesticide residue and new quarantine rules significantly affected Vietnam’s shipments.

Export Market Breakdown

The performance varied across different markets, with China, the U.S., and Thailand remaining the top three Vietnamese fruit and vegetable export destinations.

Key Markets & Developments

China – The Largest Market

• Total exports: $174.13 million (46.5% share)
• Decline due to: New “Yellow O” quarantine regulations and additional cadmium inspections.
• Government Response: Vietnam has engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to resume durian exports under revised certification requirements.

United States – Strong Growth

• Total exports: $31.25 million (8.35% share)
• Despite a 22.4% decline from Dec 2024, exports grew by 38.8% year-over-year.
• Key growth driver: Rising demand for Vietnamese dragon fruit, mangoes, and coconuts.

Thailand – Positive Growth

• Total exports: $19.81 million (5.29% share)
• Increase of 5.0% from Dec 2024 and 5.4% from Jan 2024.
• Thailand continues to be a steady importer of Vietnamese fresh produce.

Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite its growth potential, the Vietnamese fruit and vegetable export industry faces significant challenges:

1. Stricter Import Regulations – The EU and U.S. have increased inspections for pesticide residues and food safety compliance.
2. Trade Fraud Issues – Unauthorized use of export region codes and forged certificates has led to regulatory crackdowns.
3. Geopolitical Factors – Trade tensions and global conflicts are impacting cross-border trade.
4. Supply Chain Disruptions – Weather conditions and natural disasters could affect production and export timelines.

Top 10 Exporting Companies

Strategies for Growth & Future Outlook

To meet the $8 billion target, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable industry is focusing on:

1. Enhancing Product Quality – Strengthening pesticide control and improving packaging standards.
2. Expanding Market Access – Negotiating with EVFTA and CPTPP trade partners to increase official export channels.
3. Boosting Processed Fruit Exports – Shifting towards value-added products such as frozen mango, passion fruit juice, and dried coconut.
4. Strengthening Sustainability Initiatives – Implementing eco-friendly and circular agriculture practices.
5. Addressing Trade Fraud – Increasing transparency in the certification and export process.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable industry has strong growth potential despite facing short-term export challenges. With improved quality control, expanded markets, and greater investments in sustainability, the country is set to become a leading global supplier.

By focusing on diversification, market expansion, and process optimization, Vietnam can successfully achieve its $8 billion export goal for 2025 and push towards $10 billion by 2027.