Vietnam is approaching TET, the Lunar New Year celebration, when all families gather to celebrate the start of a new year together. It is also the time when pork consumption increases significantly, around 10% or 15% more than usual [1]. In this context of skyrocketing demand, the local industry suffers, still damaged by an African swine fever outbreak that has not yet been brought under control. In this very 2025, 970 outbreaks have already been reported in 33 different provinces, forcing the slaughter of more than 100,000 pigs [2]. Other natural disasters, such as Typhoons Ragasa and Bualoi in recent months, have not helped either.

The market price of pork has risen by 20% since the ASF outbreak reported in February this year [3]. The Animal Husbandry Association reports an average price of live pigs at 55,000 VND (1.81 EUR) per kilogram [4], which can vary slightly depending on the region. The Ministry of Agriculture projects that this increase will continue to happen and projects a price of 60,000 VND (1.97 EUR) and 67,000 VND (2.20 EUR) per kg in the near future.

Also, according to the Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam currently has a deficit of 200,000 tonnes of pork. They advise the industry to cover the deficit through imports, taking into account inflation and price increases.

Statistics from the General Department of Customs show that in the third quarter of 2025, Vietnam imported 75.2 thousand tonnes of pork, worth 134 million USD (116.3 million EUR). This represents a 115.9% increase in volume and a 94% increase in value compared to the second quarter of the year. And an increase of 158% in volume and 94% compared to 2024 [5]. Russia and Brazil continue to be the main players, followed by Canada and Europe.

The United States is still a minority partner, 8 million USD (6.94 million EUR) compared to 110 million USD (95.5 million EUR) for the European Union until August 2025, but its loss of influence in China means that it is paying greater attention to Vietnam and other markets in the ASEAN region. In October, it signed a Joint Statement with Vietnam and Thailand and has begun negotiating tariff reductions and agreements for the importation of pork and beef [6].

Competition is growing, and Chile is close to finalising the requirements for exporting pork to Vietnam. The FTA between the two markets means that it could become a significant player in the future [7].

Vietnam continues to stand out as a dynamic market with significant opportunities for high-quality European pork. While the regulatory landscape can evolve quickly, as illustrated by recent customs updates, including the supplementary documentation referenced in Circular 4 [8]. A well-established cooperation between importers and their local partners helps the sector respond with agility to such developments. In a context where demand for premium imported meat keeps growing, this coordinated approach contributes to strengthening long-term market presence and unlocking the full potential that Vietnam has to offer.

[1] Food consumption demand during Tet is expected to increase sharply by 10-15% – Vietnam Livestock
[2] https://asemconnectvietnam.gov.vn/default.aspx?ZID1=8&ID1=2&ID8=145342
[3] https://euromeatnews.com/Article-Vietnam-is-facing-200,000-tonnes-shortage-of-pork/3399
[4] Live hog price today 24-11: The North keeps the price increase – Vietnam Livestock
[5] Domestic and international meat market newsletter 10/2025 – Vietnam Livestock
[6] https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/2025/10/joint-statement-on-united-states-vietnam-framework-for-an-agreement-on-reciprocal-fair-and-balanced-trade/
[7] https://vietnamnews.vn/brandinfo/1728991/chile-seeks-to-export-pork-to-viet-nam.html
[8] Dismantling Circular 04 in the spirit of ‘you have to understand each other’ – Website of the Department of Animal Health