Brian Jeffrey
In 2024, Vietnamese pepper farmers thrive as prices surge, accumulating export revenues of almost $1.3 billion. Photo: Pham Cong.
Vietnam’s pepper export reached 242,000 tons, generating nearly $1.3 billion in 2024, amid significantly rising prices.
As of December 15, data from the General Department of Customs indicates that Vietnam’s pepper exports totaled approximately 242,000 tons, yielding $1.26 billion.
This year’s revenue has greatly surpassed the $910.5 million earned in 2023, despite a drop in export volume by roughly 23,900 tons.
The earnings represent the highest for Vietnam’s pepper industry since 2017, highlighting a resurgence of its previous success.
The remarkable increase in pepper prices has been a significant factor in this achievement. In January, the average export price was $4,003 per ton, which skyrocketed to $6,501 per ton by October—a rise of 72.4% year-over-year.
Reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reveal that the average export price in the first 11 months of 2024 was $5,198 per ton, marking a significant 53.3% increase compared to last year.
Domestically, pepper prices surged from VND 80,000 per kilogram in January to VND 180,000 per kilogram by mid-June. Although prices have declined somewhat, they still remain elevated, ensuring robust profits for farmers.
The major importers of Vietnamese pepper include the United States, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates, collectively accounting for 44.1% of the export earnings in this sector.
Germany has notably increased its imports, with volumes more than doubling—growing 2.4 times compared to 2023.
Key producing regions in Vietnam are gearing up for a new harvest season, anticipating a yield of around 170,000 tons.
Farmers are transitioning from intensive, unchecked planting practices to strategies focusing on enhanced productivity and quality through organic methods.
Many have also adopted intercropping techniques, cultivating pepper alongside coffee and fruit trees. This system benefits nutrient sharing and pest management, ensuring consistent yields while solidifying Vietnam’s position as the premier global pepper producer.
Tam An
