Vietnam’s meat industry recorded encouraging gains in meat exports, with higher export value and wider international reach during Q1 2026, even as shipment volumes declined.
Export performance in Q1
Data from the Vietnam Customs Department, show a divergence between shipment volumes and export earnings.
Meat and meat product exports totaled 4600 tons, down 13.7% year‑on‑year. Yet export value rose 11.3% to USD 33.32 million, reflecting stronger global prices and a shift toward higher value‑added products. Shipments reached 21 countries and territories, underscoring Vietnam’s growing international footprint despite volume pressures
Market insight: The contrast between lower export volumes and higher export value indicates that Vietnamese exporters are increasingly focusing on higher value-added products or benefiting from stronger global meat prices.
Market developments and destinations
Vietnam’s export portfolio remains diverse, though performance varied across destinations.
Hong Kong retained its position as the largest market, accounting for more than half of total export value. Shipments, however, fell 36.2% year‑on‑year, mainly in suckling pork and frozen whole pigs.
Several traditional partners—including Canada, Malaysia, South Korea, and the Netherlands—also recorded downturns, reflecting softer demand and tighter competition.
By contrast, exports to China, France, Singapore, Japan, the US, and Cambodia expanded. These gains illustrate Vietnam’s push to diversify and reduce reliance on established markets, while tapping into regions with rising demand for quality meat products.
Export product structure
The product mix continues to evolve, with exporters focusing on processed and specialty items that command higher margins. This shift aligns with global consumer trends favoring traceability, safety, and convenience.
Industry outlook and trends
Despite global economic uncertainties, two clear trends are shaping Vietnam’s meat industry.
Exporters are prioritizing product quality and value‑added processing to sustain revenue growth despite declining shipment volumes.
At the same time, diversification into demanding markets such as the US, France, and Japan is expected to strengthen long‑term sustainability and reduce risks from overreliance on traditional partners.