In the first 11 months of the year, chili maintained its position as the “star” in Vietnam’s exported vegetables and fruits, bringing in nearly 102 million USD. This is an increase of over 20% compared to the same period last year.
According to data from the Import-Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade), Vietnam’s vegetable and fruit export turnover in the first 11 months reached about 380.9 million USD. This is an increase of 13.9% compared to the same period last year. In the overall picture, the structure is clearly differentiated, with chili playing a leading role in both scale and growth rate.
The most prominent item was chili, with export value reaching nearly 102 million USD, a 20.1% increase compared to the same period last year, and the highest level in many years. The export value of chili is equivalent to nearly 2.650 billion VND. This result makes chili the largest item in the vegetable group, accounting for nearly 27% of the total export value of vegetables in 11 months.
Chili exports passed 100 million USD for the first time.
Vietnamese chili is primarily exported to China, Laos, and South Korea, with a small portion to the United States. Among them, China continues to be the largest market due to high demand and seasonal differences. Vietnam has the advantage of producing chili all year round. Meanwhile, China only has one or two main seasons, causing this market to import from other countries.
The chili varieties favored by the market include those with high spiciness, strong flavor, and suitability for processing needs.
According to Mr. Dang Phuc Nguyen, Secretary General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, chili is the most popular spice in the vegetable group and brings high economic value. China and South Korea are particularly fond of Vietnamese chili due to its distinctive spicy and fragrant flavor, which is superior to similar products from many other countries. Especially, chili is an important ingredient in dishes like hot pot and kimchi.
Export prices for chili fluctuate significantly depending on the season, quality, and market supply and demand. Under normal conditions, the price is between 45,000 and 65,000 VND/kg. However, when supply is scarce, prices can increase strongly. By the end of 2025, the price of chili was 120,000 – 150,000 VND/kg, as traders increased purchases to fulfill export orders.
The impressive growth of chili shows significant potential for Vietnam’s vegetable and fruit export industry, especially if quality is improved, planting areas are controlled, and consumer markets are expanded in the coming time.