Agricultural trade relations between Vietnam and the US continue to strengthen, with the US soybean industry identifying Vietnam as one of its key markets in Southeast Asia. This message was underscored at the 30th anniversary celebration of cooperation between the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and Vietnam, held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 18, 2025.
According to Timothy Loh, Regional Director for Southeast Asia and Oceania at USSEC, Vietnam is currently the third-largest importer of US soybeans in the region and ranks 13th globally. For the 2023-2024 marketing year, Vietnam is expected to import approximately 2.2 million tons of whole soybeans and nearly 6 million tons of soybean meal to meet domestic consumption and production needs.
Soybean demand in Vietnam is rapidly increasing, driven by the growth of the livestock and aquaculture industries, as well as a rising trend toward plant-based foods. Soybeans are considered a high-quality source of plant protein, playing a vital role in both animal feed production and nutritional food processing.
As Vietnam’s animal feed sector undergoes rapid modernization, many oil pressing and feed manufacturing plants have opted for the stable supply offered by the US. The rise of the middle class and urbanization is also contributing to greater demand for protein-rich foods, in which soybeans are a core ingredient.
Collaboration for sustainable development
Beyond trade, US-Vietnam cooperation in the soybean sector also emphasizes sustainable development. US farmers have adopted environmentally friendly farming practices, reduced carbon emissions, ensured traceability, and maintained supply chain stability. These efforts allow US soybeans to meet global standards, aligning with Vietnam’s vision for sustainable agricultural development.
Notably, during the event, the Vietnam Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture (PSAV) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with USSEC. This MoU paves the way for promoting trade, providing technical support, and raising awareness about sustainable US soybean products.
“Vietnam’s agriculture sector is committed to sustainable development and enhancing the competitiveness of domestic industries,” emphasized Deputy Minister Hoang Trung of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
“The MoU with USSEC reflects our shared determination to build a reliable, transparent, and forward-looking supply chain- supporting economic growth, environmental protection, and rising demand for high-quality food and feed ingredients.”
Vietnam and the US are currently comprehensive strategic partners. Among the pillars of this partnership, agricultural trade, especially soybeans – plays a crucial role, contributing not only to economic growth but also to building a stable regional food supply chain.
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