The Vietnamese coconut sector is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by significant export growth despite recent domestic price volatility. For B2B partners and distributors, understanding these shifting dynamics—the temporary drop in fresh fruit prices juxtaposed with massive increases in export volume—is crucial for making informed sourcing decisions within the global market. Vietnam’s industry is rapidly evolving into a major global player, showcasing resilience and strategic advantage.
Market Volatility vs. Export Dominance in the Coconut Sector
Recent reports highlight a steep drop in the price of fresh coconut domestically, yet the overall export performance paints a picture of robust growth and expansion.
The Fresh Coconut Price Dip
As of mid-October, fresh fruit prices in key growing areas like Vĩnh Long experienced a sharp decrease, falling to approximately 30,000 – 40,000 VND per dozen (12 units). Export-standard fruit commanded only around 6,000 VND per piece. This starkly contrasts with the hot season a few months earlier, when prices reached 200,000 VND per dozen.
However, this price drop primarily reflects a significant increase in supply. Mr. Trương Tấn Tuấn, General Director of Energy Coconut Co., Ltd., noted that the current yield is 3 to 4 times higher than previous levels. This surge ensures local farmers still secure a substantial income. Market experts remain optimistic, predicting a price rebound by November 2025 as seasonal production volume returns to normal and major international buyers, such as China, boost their purchasing activity.
Export Growth Trajectory
Despite domestic price fluctuations, coconut remains a leading agricultural export, following closely behind durian. Customs data through August 2025 reveals impressive growth across the coconut industry:
- Fresh, Whole Coconut Exports: Reached $115.5 million, marking a $15\%$ increase over the previous year.
- Processed Coconut Exports: Hit $233.7 million, demonstrating a remarkable $54\%$ increase year-over-year.
Cumulatively, the coconut industry contributed $345.2 million to export turnover by September 2025, positioning the sector to potentially exceed half a billion USD for the entire year.
Driving Factors Behind Market Expansion
The success of the Vietnamese coconut market is rooted in strategic agricultural shifts and favorable product characteristics.
Agricultural Innovation and High Yield
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Environment, Vietnam’s output reached $1.6$ million tons by September 2025, marking a $0.7\%$ increase. This growth is largely concentrated in the Mekong Delta, where farmers have strategically adopted new, higher-yielding varieties. These modern palms are shorter, produce more fruit of better quality, and are easier to cultivate and harvest, guaranteeing an improved and continuous supply of the raw material.
Superior Product Attributes and Market Acceptance
The inherent qualities of Vietnamese coconuts make them highly competitive globally. Mr. Nguyễn Đình Tùng, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, highlighted the immense export opportunity. The long shelf life of fresh fruit allows easy export worldwide, ensuring strong competition, especially against key rival Thai ones
- International Preference for Siêm Varieties: Market sales data confirms that Dừa Xiêm Xanh (Green Siêm) and Dừa Xiêm Đỏ (Red Siêm) are the most favored by international customers due to their refreshing, clean sweetness.
- Consistent Farmer Income: The harvest cycle offers significant financial stability for farmers. As Mr. Tùng noted, the consistent harvest every 20 to 25 days provides farmers with income likened to a “monthly salary,” offering a crucial advantage over seasonal crops.
Strategic Implications for B2B Partners
The current environment signals opportunity, not caution, for international buyers. The temporary domestic price dip, caused by a major supply surge, offers competitive sourcing for the fresh fruit, while the explosive growth in processed exports confirms Vietnam’s ability to produce value-added goods at scale.
Vietnam’s industry is defined by innovation, high quality, and expanding global reach. Secure your long-term supply of premium fresh and processed products. Contact us today to discuss your bulk needs and capitalize on this powerful export trend!