The Export Potential of Vietnamese Cassava Starch in the Global Market

 

In the context of the global shift toward green consumption and sustainable development, Vietnamese cassava starch is gradually asserting its position as one of the country’s strategic agricultural export commodities. With abundant raw material resources, increasingly modern processing technology, and growing international demand, Vietnam’s cassava starch industry is opening up tremendous opportunities for growth in the period 2025 - 2030.

 

1. Overview of Vietnam’s Cassava Starch Industry:

 

1.1. Abundant Resources and Stable Output:

- Vietnam currently ranks among the top three cassava starch exporters in the world, following Thailand and Cambodia.
- The country maintains more than 500,000 hectares of cassava cultivation, mainly in midland, Central Highlands, and Southeastern regions.
- With advanced processing technology, Vietnamese cassava starch products increasingly meet international standards of purity and bio-safety.

1.2. Popular Export Product Types:

- Native cassava starch: Used in the production of food, confectionery, beverages, and paper.
- Modified cassava starch: Applied in textiles, adhesives, and biodegradable packaging.
- Cassava residue (dry pulp): Used as animal feed or raw material for bioethanol production.

 

Cassava starch

 

2. Global Market Potential for Vietnamese Cassava Starch:

 

2.1. Rising Demand Across Key Regions:

- Asia: China, Japan, and South Korea are Vietnam’s largest import markets, with China accounting for over 80% of total cassava starch export value.
- Europe: The growing demand for bioplastics and organic materials creates opportunities for deeper market penetration.
- North America: The “green material” consumption trend positions cassava starch as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics.

2.2. Globalization of the Green Agricultural Sector:

- The world is rapidly transitioning toward a circular economy and renewable energy, in which cassava starch plays a vital role as a bio-based raw material.
- Many international corporations are seeking reliable long-term suppliers from Vietnam, attracted by consistent quality and competitive pricing.

 

3. Vietnam’s Competitive Advantages in Cassava Starch Export:

 

3.1. Cost Efficiency and Economic Effectiveness:

- An abundant agricultural workforce and low production costs provide a price advantage for Vietnam compared to regional competitors.
- Production processes are increasingly mechanized and quality-controlled according to international standards such as ISO and HACCP.

3.2. Government Support for Export Growth:

- The Vietnamese government actively promotes sustainable agricultural programs, provides credit support, and encourages investment in green cassava starch processing plants.
- Trade agreements such as EVFTA, RCEP, and CPTPP have opened new opportunities for Vietnamese cassava starch to penetrate high-standard global markets.

 

4. Challenges and Solutions for Enhancing Export Value:

 

4.1. Current Challenges:

- Heavy reliance on the Chinese market makes the industry vulnerable to policy or trade fluctuations.
- Strong competition from Thailand – a nation with a well-established brand and distribution network.
- Smaller enterprises often lack international certifications, limiting access to the European and American markets.

4.2. Sustainable Development Solutions:

- Invest in deep-processing technology to increase added value, such as modified starch, bioplastics, and bioethanol.
- Develop a value chain linking enterprises, farmers, and researchers to ensure consistent quality of raw materials.
- Promote digital trade marketing, participate in international exhibitions, and build the brand “Vietnam Cassava Starch – The Global Green Material.”

 

Cassava starch

 

5. Future Outlook: Vietnam Toward Becoming a Regional Cassava Starch Hub:

 

- Over the next five years, Vietnam’s cassava starch industry is expected to achieve annual growth of 7–10%, driven by export expansion and the global shift toward green agricultural materials.
- With sustainable strategies, technological innovation, and brand development, Vietnam is well-positioned to become one of Asia’s leading cassava starch suppliers, contributing significantly to the global green economy.