According to the Vietnam Customs Department, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export turnover in 2025 reached a record high of 8.56 billion USD, an increase of 19.8% compared to 2024. Fresh chilies recorded a growth of nearly 21%, bringing in 117 million USD. This result helps fresh chilies rank among the top 10 vegetables with high export value, with a market share of 1.36%.
Vietnamese chili is mainly exported to China, Laos, and South Korea, and a small portion to the United States. Among them, China is the largest consumer market due to high demand and seasonal differences. Vietnam can produce and export chili all year round, while China only has one or two main seasons.
Popular chili varieties have high spiciness and strong flavor, suitable for processing needs.
Chili exports have brought in over 100 million USD for Vietnam.
China and South Korea particularly favor Vietnamese chilies due to their distinctive spice and flavor, which are superior to similar products from other countries. Especially, chili is an important ingredient in dishes like hot pot and kimchi.
In Vietnam, the Mekong Delta has a large chili-growing area, providing stable income for farmers. Dong Thap, especially Thanh Binh district, is considered the heart of chili.
The communes in the Mekong Delta and those along the Tien River are areas with a high concentration of chili cultivation. Fresh chili production is over 22,500 tons per year.
Besides that, another “heart” of chili in Vietnam, located in the North, is Lang Son province. In this locality, chilies are mainly grown in the Chi Lang, Loc Binh, Huu Lung, and Van Quan districts. Traditional chili varieties have been replaced by high-yielding ones.
Export prices for chili fluctuate significantly depending on the season, quality, and market demand. By the end of 2025, the domestic price of chili for export reached 120,000-150,000 VND per kg, as traders increased purchases to meet export orders.
2025 is a breakthrough year for Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable industry, with export value reaching a record high. This is thanks to Vietnam signing more important protocols with China and opening up to demanding markets such as Australia, the United States, and the EU. In particular, the proportion of processed fruits and vegetables has increased, helping to reduce seasonal pressure and enhance added value.