Industry leaders attributed the growth not only to higher global prices but also to Vietnam’s strategy of upgrading quality, expanding specialty coffee, adopting sustainability certification, and meeting international standards. These shifts have helped Vietnamese coffee strengthen its global position and reduce pricing risks.

The average export price stood at USD 5,580 per tonne, up 46.4 per cent year-on-year. Germany, Italy, and Spain remained top buyers, while exports to Mexico surged over 90-fold. Despite modest growth, shipments to China rose 11.7 per cent.

Experts noted that longstanding investments in processing technology and supply chain transparency have lifted the competitiveness of Vietnamese Robusta, making it a preferred choice for roasters worldwide. Enterprises are also moving into higher-value segments such as specialty and processed coffee, supported by free trade agreements including EVFTA, UKVFTA, and CPTPP.

Private firms have emerged as a driving force. Vinh Hiep Company of Gia Lai province posted over USD 750 million in exports and expects to surpass USD 1 billion this year, accounting for more than 12 per cent of national coffee exports.

Meanwhile, Phuc Sinh Group stressed that Vietnamese Robusta, once considered low-priced, is now commanding some of the highest prices globally thanks to advanced processing, modern roasting systems, and expansion into instant and specialty lines.

Vietnam currently cultivates around 732,000 hectares of coffee, with an average yield of 2.9 tonnes per hectare. Advanced farming models can reach up to 5 tonnes per hectare, underscoring significant potential for growth.

Despite looming challenges from stricter environmental regulations such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), industry experts view this as an opportunity to pivot towards green, sustainable models. Such a shift will not only secure Vietnam’s export markets but also align the sector with circular economy trends, climate resilience, and cultural development.