The U.S. and China increase pepper imports, helping pepper prices remain high even as Vietnam enters the peak harvest season in 2026.

Strong import demand supports pepper prices during the harvest season

In the first months of 2026, the pepper market recorded many positive signals as the U.S. and China increased imports from Vietnam. Stable consumption demand combined with limited supply has helped pepper prices remain high despite the ongoing peak harvest season.

Currently, pepper prices are fluctuating around VND 140,000/kg, showing little change compared to the end of March, although the harvest season is taking place across the Southeast region and the Central Highlands. Vietnam’s pepper harvest season is expected to end by late April.

According to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment: “Pepper prices slightly decreased from the peak level of VND 150,000/kg due to increased supply from the new harvest season, while demand has not increased proportionally. However, because supply is not abundant, pepper prices are expected to remain high in the medium and long term.”

Pepper exports recorded strong growth in the first quarter of 2026 

In the first quarter of 2026, Vietnam’s pepper exports continued to achieve positive results.

In March alone, export volume reached 29,000 tons with export turnover of USD 186 million. Accumulated over the first three months of 2026, total export volume reached nearly 65,000 tons, up 37% compared to the same period last year; export turnover reached nearly USD 418 million, up 29% in value. The average export price of pepper in the first quarter of 2026 was estimated at USD 6,465/ton, down 6% compared to the same period in 2025.

The fact that the U.S. and China increase imports is considered one of the factors contributing to the growth of Vietnam’s pepper exports during this period.

The U.S. and China are Vietnam’s two largest import markets

According to the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA), the U.S. remained Vietnam’s largest market in the first quarter, with export volume reaching 16,859 tons, up 64% year-on-year and accounting for more than 25% market share. Notably, China imported 8,563 tons, increasing by 321% and becoming the second-largest market. The UAE followed with 3,182 tons, up 15%, while the Philippines reached 2,383 tons, up 49%.

Thanks to the trend that the U.S. and China increase imports, Vietnam’s pepper market is expected to maintain positive momentum in the coming period. In addition, stable consumption demand continues to play an important role in supporting export growth and maintaining favorable market conditions.

Vietnam’s cinnamon exports continue to grow

Besides pepper, Vietnam exported 22,254 tons of cinnamon with export turnover reaching USD 58 million; compared to the same period in 2025, export volume increased nearly 11% and export value increased 6.1%. Currently, India, the U.S., and Bangladesh are the three largest export markets for Vietnamese cinnamon.

Conclusion

The fact that the U.S. and China increase imports of Vietnamese pepper is creating positive momentum for Vietnam’s pepper industry in 2026. Although the country is entering the peak harvest season, pepper prices remain high thanks to stable consumption demand and limited supply. This is considered a positive signal that will help Vietnam’s pepper exports continue maintaining growth momentum in the near future.

Source:https://www.tintucnongnghiep.com/2026/04/my-va-trung-quoc-tang-nhap-gia-tieu-duy.html