Vietnamese Agricultural Products And The Math To Expand Export Markets

Challenges in Key Export Markets

According to a report by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam’s total export value of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products reached USD 21.15 billion in the first four months of 2025, up nearly 11% compared to the same period last year. Of this, agricultural products contributed USD 11.6 billion, forestry products USD 5.56 billion, and seafood nearly USD 3.1 billion.

The United States, China, and Japan remain Vietnam’s top three export markets for these products. However, these countries are increasingly tightening their technical and quality standards, placing greater pressure on domestic exporters.

Speaking at the April performance review conference and Q2/2025 planning session, Minister Đỗ Đức Duy emphasized that while there have been positive results, the global landscape remains volatile, with trade tensions and market fluctuations requiring the agriculture sector to remain vigilant.

A clear example is durian, which set a record with USD 3.2 billion in export value in 2024, but is now showing signs of stagnation. By the end of April, durian exports had reached only about 20% of the target set for 2025. The primary reason lies in difficulties with inspection and quality control regulations imposed by the Chinese market.

Mr. Đặng Phúc Nguyên, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, reported that total fruit and vegetable export turnover reached just USD 1.6 billion in the first four months. Even if the challenges with durian are resolved, reaching the export target of USD 8 billion for 2025 remains a significant challenge.

In another segment, rice exports reached USD 1.75 billion but were down by 14% compared to the same period last year — a concerning signal given the global demand for food remains high. The coffee industry is also under pressure, particularly from the European market.

In the face of growing challenges, many businesses believe that simply maintaining market share is no longer enough. Instead, a long-term strategy must include expanding into new markets, identifying new partners, and strengthening competitiveness through technology adoption and greater supply chain transparency.

Finding New Directions – Expanding Markets and Investing in Technology

Although exports of some products have shown signs of slowdown, the overall picture still indicates strong growth potential — especially for businesses that are flexible and proactive in adapting to change.

However, for Vietnamese agricultural products to go further, businesses must strictly adhere to international standards, particularly for products under signed export protocols. This not only maximizes export opportunities but also helps mitigate risks.

The trend of applying high-tech solutions to enhance product value is becoming more evident in the agricultural sector. Ms. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Thùy, CEO of ICED Group, shared that her company has integrated its entire farming area into an IoT-based system, enabling more accurate yield forecasts and more scientific crop management.

“We are aiming to expand exports to the Middle East and Southeast Asia while also strengthening our domestic market presence. This is part of our strategic approach to ensure stable orders amid increasingly fierce global competition,” Ms. Thùy stated.