Vietnam and China have long been critical economic partners, and their trade relationship continues to deepen, marking significant growth potential, particularly in the food sector. As China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner and Vietnam holds the distinction of being China’s top partner in ASEAN, their economic collaboration offers substantial opportunities for Vietnamese food exhibitors looking to expand in one of the world’s most lucrative food markets.

Growing Bilateral Trade and Market Opportunities

As of 2024, the bilateral trade between Vietnam and China reached 1.6737 trillion RMB in the first 11 months, reflecting a 15.3% increase year-on-year. This growth trend is expected to continue, with projections showing the trade volume may reach a record 200 billion USD by the end of the year. Such figures underscore the strength of the Vietnam-China trade partnership, with food products being one of the driving forces behind this expansion.

China is currently Vietnam's largest fruit and vegetable export market, accounting for 65.2% of the country’s total exports in this category. Additionally, Vietnam's seafood exports to China totaled 1.4 billion USD by November 2024, a 23.2% increase from the previous year. These figures are indicative of China’s increasing demand for high-quality, fresh food products from its neighbor, offering a substantial opportunity for Vietnamese food companies to further penetrate the Chinese market.

The potential is further amplified by the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0, which offer preferential trade terms that make it easier for Vietnamese food products to enter the Chinese market with fewer barriers.

Vietnam’s Food Exports: A Growing Force in China’s Market

In 2023, China’s total food imports amounted to 140.18 billion USD, and Vietnam ranked 8th as a source of food imports, contributing 5.95 billion USD or 4.25% of China’s total food imports. Vietnamese exports, particularly in categories such as seafood, grains, fruits, and ready-to-eat products, have been steadily increasing. For instance, in 2023, Vietnam ranked 3rd among China’s sources of fruit and fruit products, contributing 2.87 billion USD, or 16.47% of the total market share for fruit imports.

Additionally, Vietnam is increasingly becoming a key supplier of spices like pepper and lemongrass, while the country's bird’s nest and ready-to-eat products, such as instant noodles and pho, are gaining strong demand in China’s market. Vietnam's coffee exports, particularly Robusta, are also thriving in China, where demand for coffee continues to rise as the market for premium beverages grows.

Vietnam at SIAL Shanghai 2024 and 2025: A Promising Showcase of Culinary Excellence

The growing demand for Vietnamese food products is evident at international trade shows, such as SIAL Shanghai, where Vietnam's Pavilion has become a focal point for showcasing the country’s rich culinary traditions, with an emphasis on health-conscious and sustainable food products. At SIAL Shanghai 2024, exhibitors presented a wide variety of offerings, including ultra-thin rice paper, natural sweeteners, plant-based snacks, and sustainable production practices. Companies like @Tân Nhiên, @Bich Chi Food, and @Dh Foods took center stage, highlighting the diversity and innovation in Vietnam’s food sector.

Looking ahead to SIAL Shanghai 2025, the Vietnam Pavilion will return, showcasing even more health-focused, premium, and diverse food products in response to growing global demand for healthy eating. With over 180,000 expected visitors and 5,000 exhibitors, SIAL Shanghai offers an ideal platform for Vietnamese food brands to further expand their footprint in the Chinese market and globally.

Leveraging Market Trends: The Rise of E-Commerce and International Consumption

One of the most compelling opportunities for Vietnamese food exhibitors is China’s booming e-commerce market, which has transformed how food products are marketed and sold. Platforms such as Alibaba and JD.com allow Vietnamese food brands to directly reach Chinese consumers, capitalizing on the growing middle class and their increasing appetite for high-quality international food products.

In addition, trade agreements like RCEP and the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area make it easier for Vietnamese food companies to access Chinese consumers, offering more favorable tariffs and reduced barriers to entry. This presents Vietnamese exhibitors with unique opportunities to capitalize on China’s changing consumer preferences, where health-conscious and international food products are in high demand.

The Future of Vietnam-China Trade in Food: A Booming Market

Vietnam's growing export volume in sectors such as fruit, seafood, grains, and spices positions the country as an increasingly important player in the global food trade, especially in the China market. The demand for fresh, high-quality, and health-focused products is expected to increase, driven by the evolving tastes of Chinese consumers and ongoing trade partnerships.

As bilateral trade continues to rise and demand for international foods grows, Vietnamese food exhibitors have a promising opportunity to tap into this booming market. With platforms like SIAL Shanghai & SIAL Shenzhen and the continued development of digital commerce, the stage is set for Vietnam to enhance its position as a key food supplier to China and beyond.