Heaven-Sent Delicacies Propel Vietnam’s Exports Ahead of the World: Chinese Consumers Hail Vietnamese Products as Superior, Generating Billions in Revenue Since Year-Start

According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, in September 2025, Vietnam exported 72,000 tons of cashew nuts, valued at $491 million, marking the sixth consecutive month of growth compared to the same period in 2024.

In the first nine months of 2025, Vietnam exported nearly 554,000 tons of cashew nuts, worth $3.7 billion, representing a 1.6% increase in volume and a 19.5% rise in value compared to the same period in 2024. This positive trend signals a recovery in global demand, benefiting Vietnam’s cashew industry. The average export price of Vietnamese cashew nuts reached $6,801 per ton, a 17% increase from 2024.

China remained Vietnam’s largest cashew export market in September 2025, with 17,000 tons exported, valued at $111 million, reflecting a 103% increase in volume and a 107% rise in value compared to September 2024. Over the first nine months of 2025, exports to China grew by 37% in volume and 54% in value year-on-year.

Exports to the United States showed improvement compared to the previous month but remained significantly lower than the previous year. In the first nine months of 2025, Vietnam exported 107,000 tons of cashew nuts to the U.S., valued at $721 million, down 28% in volume and 17% in value compared to 2024.

During the same period, Vietnam’s cashew exports saw notable growth in several markets, including China, Germany, the UAE, the UK, Thailand, Pakistan, Japan, and Belgium. This diversification highlights Vietnamese businesses’ adaptability and market expansion efforts.

In 2006, with exports reaching $520 million, Vietnam became the world’s leading cashew exporter. By 2010, the industry surpassed $1 billion in revenue, joining the agricultural sector’s “billion-dollar club.” Vietnam now accounts for over 80% of global cashew kernel exports, maintaining its top position.

As the fourth quarter of 2025 begins, the global cashew industry enters peak consumption season, driven by increased demand from the U.S., EU, and China for year-end festivities. This presents a critical opportunity for Vietnamese exporters to boost sales and expand market share.

However, the industry faces challenges as major markets tighten import standards, requiring stricter compliance with traceability, food safety, and sustainability certifications. Additionally, growing competition from African nations, which are investing heavily in processing and integrating into global supply chains, adds pressure on Vietnamese producers.

The cashew market’s growth is fueled by the expanding food processing industry, driven by urbanization, shifting consumer lifestyles, and demand for convenience foods. A study from the University of South Australia found that regular nut consumption, including cashews, reduces cardiovascular mortality by 19-25%, coronary heart disease mortality by 24-30%, and stroke mortality by 17-18%.

For the latter half of 2025, cashew exports to China are expected to remain strong, supported by positive consumer trends, demand for healthy foods, and Vietnamese businesses’ strategic market flexibility.