Early Achievement in Agricultural, Forestry, and Aquatic Product Exports

The latest data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment reveals a robust growth in the export of agricultural, forestry, and aquatic products. In the first 11 months of 2025, the sector surpassed $64 billion, marking a 12.6% increase compared to the same period last year and exceeding the entire 2024 figure by over $1.5 billion.

Among the standout performers, coffee exports reached $7.88 billion, a nearly 60% surge year-on-year, driven by a 40% rise in export prices to an average of $5,668 per ton. The Import-Export Department of the Ministry of Industry and Trade attributes this growth to the increasing demand for processed coffee, which generated $1.46 billion in the first 10 months of 2025, a 58% increase from 2024.

This shift indicates that the coffee industry is transitioning from volume-based to quality-driven growth. This new structure positions Vietnam as a pivotal global coffee supplier.

Mr. Do Ha Nam, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association (VICOFA), predicts continued growth in the 2025-2026 season. He notes that farmers in Vietnam and Brazil are holding back sales during price dips, stabilizing the market. Additionally, expanded processing capacities and new projects are enhancing the value of Vietnamese coffee.

The pepper industry also saw significant growth, with prices rising by 30.5% to an average of $6,755 per ton. This boosted the 11-month export value to $1.5 billion, a 23% increase, despite global supply constraints.

The fruit and vegetable sector is on track to reach $10 billion in exports within the next few years, having already achieved $7.91 billion in the first 11 months of 2025, a 19.5% increase. This growth is fueled by the remarkable performance of key products like durian, bananas, and coconuts, coupled with strong demand from China and the U.S.

The cashew industry, despite facing U.S. countervailing duties, is nearing the $5 billion export mark for the first time, with 11-month exports reaching $4.76 billion, a 19.5% increase. Mr. Bach Khanh Nhut, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS), highlights the strategic shift to China, a high-potential market, in response to U.S. challenges. China’s restrictions on U.S. nut imports have significantly benefited Vietnamese cashews, with exports to China surging by 45% to 137% monthly from April to October 2025.

Prof. Dr. Bui Chi Buu, former Director of the Southern Institute of Agricultural Sciences, attributes the strong growth in agricultural and aquatic exports to favorable market conditions and the proactive efforts of Vietnamese businesses. “Global demand for food remains steady, and Vietnam’s 20 free trade agreements (FTAs) have facilitated market access. Vietnamese producers have also adapted to meet stringent technical requirements,” he stated.

Regarding market dynamics, only the U.S. employs tariffs to protect domestic production, but Vietnamese companies have adeptly navigated these challenges. “However, we must remain cautious, as farmers’ livelihoods still lag behind those in developed countries,” Prof. Buu cautioned.

To ensure sustainable development, Prof. Buu emphasizes the need for improved agricultural practices, particularly in controlling pesticide residues and preventing fraudulent labeling to safeguard Vietnam’s agricultural reputation.