Although the import figures for betel nuts have increased dramatically, experts believe that it is not a cause for concern.
According to data from the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, in the first four months of 2025, betel nuts had the highest import growth rate, with an increase of up to 1,303% compared to the same period last year, reaching 11.334 million USD.
On the other hand, Vietnam’s betel nut exports during the same period were quite low, reaching only about 730,000 USD. The total export value in the first four months is about 1 million USD. Meanwhile, in 2024, the export turnover of betel nuts was 34.93 million USD, an increase of 83% compared to 2023.
Vietnam’s imports of betel nut have increased by 1,303%.
Mr. Nguyen Van Muoi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said that most of the imported betel nuts are re-exported to China, a major consumption market, while domestic consumption demand is quite limited.
“The price of betel nuts has increased sharply in the past two years due to natural disasters causing significant damage to the main betel nut-growing region on Hainan Island (China). Due to a supply shortage, China has been forced to seek supplies from Vietnam,” Mr. Muoi said.
The domestic production of betel nuts does not meet the demand. Therefore, Vietnamese businesses have to import from Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia to serve exports to China.
The betel nut harvest in Vietnam begins in July and lasts until the end of the year, with scattered cultivation areas in the Central region, the Central Highlands, and the Mekong Delta.
According to Mr. Muoi, the market for betel nuts is unstable. Only when the betel nut-growing region of Hainan faces issues does China increase its purchases from Vietnam.
However, the betel tree is easy to grow and requires little care; it is often planted as fences for landscaping and also increases income when there is a sudden increase in demand.