Importing Vietnamese Pepper: A 2026 Complete Sourcing Guide

Vietnam pepper has been widely established globally – not just for its fiery, spicy flavor and rich aroma, but for its reliable and stable quality as well. It is for this reason that Vietnam is still a favored supplier to several demanding markets, including the U.S. and key European countries.

So, how to import pepper from Vietnam smoothly and without hassle? Here in this guide, we’re going to present to you how to access safe suppliers in Vietnam. We will also outline the major benefits and pitfalls of importing pepper from this country. This will allow you to make a well-informed decision for your company.

Overview of Vietnam’s Pepper Export

For more than two decades, Vietnamese pepper has led the world in both production and export. The country currently accounts for around 40% of global pepper output and 60% of total exports worldwide.

In Q1 2025 alone, Vietnam exported a combined quantity of more than 47,600 tons of pepper, of which more than 39,800 tons were black pepper and 7,800 tons were white pepper. Turnover in exports amounted to USD 326.6 million, an increase of nearly 39% compared to the same period in 2024.

Today, Vietnamese pepper is shipped to over 120 countries, with the biggest importer currently being the U.S. During Q1 2025. India, Germany, the UAE, and China are also among the biggest destinations.

Why Import Pepper from Vietnam

According to the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA), despite the effect of climate change on pepper crops in the majority of the world, Vietnamese pepper export quality is highly sought after for its fiery aromatic odor and sharp flavor.

Below are some of the main reasons why international buyers continue to prefer pepper from Vietnam over other origins:

1. Strong and Stable Supply All Year Round

As mentioned earlier, Vietnam accounts for nearly 60% of global exports. This makes it the top pepper supplier in the world. Even during the challenging COVID-19 period, Vietnam maintained strong production year after year – often much higher than its two main competitors, Brazil and Indonesia.

What supports this stability is Vietnam’s well-developed supply ecosystem. Vietnam has around 200 processing and exporting companies, including 15 major exporters whose factories are internationally compliant with standards such as ASTA, ESA, and JSSA.

Large farming areas in Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, and Binh Phuoc also contribute to this strength. These regions have a tropical climate with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, which is ideal for growing high-quality pepper.

2. A Wide Range of Pepper Types

Vietnam doesn’t just grow different pepper varieties; it also offers a diverse range of pepper types and quality grades based on density (g/l), moisture levels, and impurity content.

In addition, the market also includes special products such as

• Organic pepper
• Steam-sterilized pepper
• Naturally sun-dried pepper

Buyers can also customize orders based on specific needs — such as mesh size, moisture level, and packaging options. This flexibility helps them tailor their sourcing for different target markets or supply chains, including retail and food.

3. Lower price per ton

In June 2025, Vietnam’s black pepper export price averaged 4,789 US dollars per metric ton, while Brazil averaged 5,200 dollars and India over 5,400 dollars. This 8 to 12% cost difference gives you significant room to earn a margin or stay price-competitive in retail and wholesale markets.

4. Zero to low import tax

Thanks to trade agreements like EVFTA, CPTPP, and RCEP, pepper from Vietnam qualifies for 0-5% import tax into the European Union, Japan, South Korea, and other participating countries. This lowers total landed cost compared to non-preferential origins.

5. Full export documentation

Most Vietnamese suppliers provide complete document sets: certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, fumigation report, certificate of analysis, commercial invoice, and packing list. This reduces customs delays and ensures fast clearance in ports with strict regulations.

Most Exported Types of Vietnamese Pepper

Vietnamese pepper is exported in several processed forms, primarily black pepper and white pepper. Among these, black pepper accounts for over 88% of the total export volume, while white pepper accounts for approximately 12%.

1. Black Pepper

Black pepper is made from unripe green berries that are sun-dried until black and wrinkled. It is the most common form used in global cuisine.

In 2024, Vietnam exported 220,269 metric tons of black pepper worth 1.18 billion USD, making up over 88% of total export volume. Key country import markets include the United States, Germany, India, UAE, and the Netherlands.

2. White Pepper

In contrast to black pepper, white pepper is fully ripe berries with the outer skin removed by soaking and drying. It has a milder flavor and lighter color, often used in sauces.

In 2024, Vietnam exported 30,331 metric tons of white pepper, worth around 200.6 million USD. It represents roughly 12% of total exports, with Germany, the Netherlands, China, and the United States being major importers.

Common Vietnamese Pepper Product Forms For Export

1. Whole Peppercorns

Whole peppercorns are Vietnam’s largest pepper export category by volume. They are harvested, dried, cleaned, and sorted, then exported in bulk without grinding. This form preserves aroma and essential oils, making it suitable for long-distance shipping and extended storage.

2. Pepper Powder

Pepper powder is produced by grinding cleaned whole peppercorns into fine or coarse particles. Exporters usually offer different mesh sizes depending on buyer requirements and end use. Compared to whole peppercorns, pepper powder has a higher value per unit but requires stricter quality control due to higher contamination and oxidation risks.

This form is commonly used by seasoning manufacturers, ready-to-cook food producers, and private-label spice brands. Buyers often require additional certifications, such as sterilization treatment, metal detection, and moisture control, before shipment.

Where Is Pepper Cultivated in Vietnam?

Vietnam currently has around 110,500 hectares of pepper cultivation. About 95% of this area is located in the Southeast and Central Highlands regions. The rest is spread across the North Central and South Central Coast areas.

If you’re wondering where to source pepper in Vietnam, these regions below are a great starting point:

Tay Nguyen (Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Gia Lai)

Tay Nguyen, or the Central Highlands, is the largest pepper-growing region in Vietnam, with 82,865 hectares, accounting for over 61% of the country’s total output.

Farmers here are applying sustainable farming models that meet international standards such as GlobalG.A.P. and Rainforest Alliance. They also use modern techniques to ensure better quality, for example:

• Pepper berries are harvested at 5–10% ripeness uniformity.
• Post-harvest moisture is kept at an ideal level of 11–12%.

One of the region’s most famous products is Chu Se pepper. And another common variety grown here is “tieu trau” (buffalo pepper), which is easy to recognize by its purple buds and large, spicy black berries with a greenish shine.

Southeast Vietnam (Binh Phuoc and Ba Ria – Vung Tau)

The Southeast is Vietnam’s second-largest pepper-growing region, with about 38,000 hectares under cultivation. This accounts for roughly 30% of the country’s total pepper-growing area.
Binh Phuoc is often referred to as the “pepper capital” of the region, with an average yield of 2.1 tons per hectare (in 2024). Its signature product is Loc Ninh pepper, known for:

• Strong resistance to disease
• Firm, round berries with thick skins
• A deep, lingering spicy flavor

In Ba Ria – Vung Tau, the 2025 crop year recorded over 10,370 hectares of pepper, with nearly 10,000 hectares currently in harvest. The black pepper from this area is known for

• Large berry size (up to 5.8 mm in diameter)
• Thin skin (only 92.7–157.7 µm)
• A mild, pleasant spiciness

Quang Tri Province (North Central Coast)

Although smaller in scale (it has just around 2,200 hectares of pepper in 2024), Quang Tri is one of the leading regions in organic and sustainable farming. For nearly a decade, most farmers here have shifted to international-standard farming models, including EC 134 (Europe), USDA Organic (USA), and JAS (Japan).

The region is best known for Vinh Linh black pepper, which is among the Vietnamese peppers exported to the U.S. and is now expanding into Europe.

How to Import Pepper from Vietnam: Basic Steps

Importing Vietnamese pepper into global markets involves key steps such as selecting a reliable supplier, checking compliance, negotiating contract terms, arranging shipping, and clearing customs. Each stage ensures that the pepper meets both regulatory and business requirements.

1. Finding a Reputable Supplier

Importing Vietnamese pepper into global markets involves key steps such as selecting a reliable supplier, checking compliance, negotiating contract terms, arranging shipping, and clearing customs. Each stage ensures that the pepper meets both regulatory and business requirements.

You can find reputable suppliers through the following channels:

• International expos. There are major trade shows organized annually or biannually, such as Vietnam International Sourcing Expo, SIAL China, or Anuga Germany, where Vietnamese pepper exporters participate every year. This is the best way to find verified and large-scale suppliers for agricultural commodities such as pepper. You are able to meet the suppliers directly and evaluate product samples on the spot. Yet, it will definitely require travel and participation costs.
• Online B2B platforms. This way is easier and faster to start. You can look at platforms like Alibaba, VinaSources, Global Sources, or the official
  Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA)
  exporter list. But since you cannot verify face-to-face, you must request samples and conduct strict checks before contract signing.

You can also work with well-known pepper suppliers in Vietnam. But keep in mind that not all suppliers are direct producers; some act only as traders, so you should always verify licenses and certifications before signing contracts. Below are some of the most recognized names on the market:

• Simexco Daklak. This is one of the top pepper exporters from the Central Highlands.
• Nedspice Vietnam. Nedspice is a subsidiary of the Dutch group Nedspice, strong in processed pepper.
• Olam Vietnam. Olam has been part of the Olam Group, a leading global spice supplier, since 1999.

If this is your first time importing pepper from Vietnam and not so sure what to look for, we recommend you use the checklist:

• Check if the supplier is registered with the Vietnam Pepper Association (VPA) and holds an official export license from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
• Verify product quality standards. For pepper products, the moisture content must be ≤ 13%, the density ≥ 500 g/l, and free of mold and impurities.
• Confirm the supplier can provide export documents. Necessary documents for pepper export are Certificate of Origin (CO), Phytosanitary Certificate, Fumigation Certificate, Certificate of Analysis, Packing List, and Commercial Invoice.

There are also some special requirements for importing to certain markets. We will list the specific documents, licenses, and certificates in the following section.

2. Negotiating Contract Terms

Now, it’s time to work with suppliers to agree on price, grade, and packaging. In terms of price, minimum order quantities (MOQs) and average lead time for pepper export in Vietnam will usually be 1 full container load (17-19 metric tons) with 3-4 weeks lead time. For trial orders, some suppliers accept 1-2 tons (LCL shipments).

That said, these figures are just average benchmarks and the final terms will vary depending on the type (black or white pepper), the grade, and the individual suppliers. Grade here refers to the density, cleanliness, and processing level. You will be familiar with this system when sourcing agricultural commodities such as pepper, coffee, and cashew nuts.

For quick reference, you can review the following table.

Pepper Type	Typical Grade	Density (g/L)	Average Price FOB	MOQ	Lead Time
Black Pepper	FAQ (Fair Average Quality)	~500 g/L	~4,789 USD/ton	1 FCL (17-19 tons)	3-4 weeks
Black Pepper	Machine Cleaned 550 GL	~550 g/L	~4,900-5,000 USD/ton	1 FCL	3-4 weeks
White Pepper	Double Washed 620 GL	~620 g/L	~6,800-7,000 USD/ton	1 FCL (17-19 tons)	3-4 weeks
Trial Order	Black or White, mixed SKUs	—	FOB price + handling surcharge	1-2 tons (LCL)	4-6 weeks

Oftentimes, Vietnamese suppliers are open to flexible payment terms (T/T advance, L/C at sight, or partial deposit). Buyers can negotiate by bundling multiple SKUs in one container, committing to seasonal contracts, or agreeing on long-term volume to secure better unit pricing.

Notes: These prices are indicative of FOB Ho Chi Minh City and do not include inland transport, insurance, or customs clearance fees in the importing country. Normally, suppliers from Vietnam, including pepper exporters, will only handle export-side responsibilities such as local transport to port, export customs clearance, and loading onto the vessel. Costs such as freight, port handling, import duty, VAT, and inland delivery will add to the landed price.

Currency fluctuations and seasonal demand may also affect quotations. Buyers should always request a proforma invoice and updated price confirmation. It is also essential to carefully review the sales contract clauses on product specifications, delivery terms (Incoterms), and payment conditions before finalizing.

3. Shipment and Customs Clearance

The final step is to arrange international shipping and customs clearance. For pepper products, Vietnam usually exports by sea freight through major ports such as Cat Lai (Ho Chi Minh City), Cai Mep-Thi Vai (Ba Ria-Vung Tau), and Hai Phong.

Transit time will depend on the destination country and the shipping route chosen. As noted above, FOB prices only cover export-side handling, so freight, insurance, and import customs costs must be calculated separately.

Below is a reference table for typical sea freight transit times and costs from Ho Chi Minh City to key markets:

Destination Port	Transit Time (Sea)	Typical Ocean Freight (40ft Container, 2025)	Notes
Los Angeles (USA)	25-30 days	~2,800-3,200 USD	Port congestion may add delays
New York (USA)	32-38 days	~3,500-4,000 USD	Longer route via the Panama Canal
Rotterdam (Netherlands)	28-32 days	~2,200-2,600 USD	Main EU entry for pepper
Hamburg (Germany)	30-35 days	~2,300-2,700 USD	Alternative EU hub
Dubai (UAE)	18-22 days	~1,500-1,800 USD	Middle East distribution hub

These figures are calculated from Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai Port or Cai Mep–Thi Vai Port). For shipments departing from Hai Phong Port (North Vietnam), transit times may increase or decrease by around 3-5 days, depending on the route and transshipment points.

Regarding customs clearance, the exporter is responsible for Vietnamese export procedures, including customs declaration, inspection, and export duty exemptions. As the buyer, you will be responsible for customs clearance, payment of import duties, and compliance with food safety regulations in your destination country.

Import Pepper From Vietnam: Key Regulations and Requirements

That’s about the essential steps for finding suppliers, negotiating contracts, and arranging shipment. Out of all these stages, paperwork and regulatory compliance are usually the most complicated and time-consuming parts. As promised, this section will guide you on how to prepare to meet those requirements for easy Vietnamese pepper import. We will focus on the US and EU markets.

1. Import Documentation and Licenses Required

In both the US and EU, pepper is classified in the agricultural product category. As a result, you will need mandatory plant health and trade documents before customs clearance. These ensure the pepper shipment complies with international trade, food safety, and customs rules.

Main documents include:

• Phytosanitary Certificate: Issued by the Vietnamese Plant Protection Department. Its purpose is to confirm the shipment is pest- and disease-free. You can ask your exporter in Vietnam to arrange this before shipment. The latest valid template follows Appendix I of TT 33/2014/TT-BNNPTNT as amended by Circular 12/2025/TT-BNNMT.
• Certificate of Origin (CO): Issued by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) or authorized bodies to qualify for preferential tariffs. Under EVFTA, CPTPP, or GSP rules, it is the Vietnamese pepper supplier’s job to prove origin. The correct CO form is used according to the trade agreement (e.g. EUR.1, CPTPP Form) and must match the shipment details exactly.
• Fumigation Certificate: Provided by licensed fumigation companies in Vietnam to show the consignment was treated for insects. The exporter usually arranges this service with a certified fumigation company (e.g., VINACONTROL, FCC Control), and the cost is covered in export handling fees.
• Certificate of Analysis (COA)/Laboratory Test Report: Issued by accredited labs. It verifies moisture ≤ 13%, density ≥ 500 g/L, pesticide residues, and microbiological safety (e.g. Salmonella-free). You need to request that suppliers provide this. If not, you can commission independent labs in Vietnam such as Vinacontrol, SGS, or Bureau Veritas.
• Commercial Invoice: Standard trade documents issued by the exporter and shipping line. Check carefully to make sure that invoice details match the packing list, CO, and COA. Any incorrect or inconsistent info can delay customs clearance.
• Packing List: Standard trade document issued by the exporter. The list must accurately reflect item count, weights, and packaging. Discrepancies with the invoice or the COA may cause inspections.
• Bill of Lading: Standard trade document issued by the shipping line. It should contain the exact container numbers, shipment dates, and vessel details.

In case you are importing into the US, make sure to file an FDA Prior Notice electronically before the vessel departs. You can do this by submitting shipment details (product, quantity, origin, shipper, consignee) via the FDA Prior Notice System Interface (PNSI) or through Automated Commercial Environment/International Trade Data System (ACE). The FDA also places high importance on food safety compliance, which means you must carefully check the COA.

For the EU, black pepper is usually under stricter testing. Accordingly, import consignments of such products may be subject to increased official controls at EU border control posts under Regulation (EU) 2019/1793. Meeting the above requirements is usually sufficient, but you should still expect delays of 2-5 days and extra testing costs.

2. HS Codes, Duties, and Taxes When Importing Pepper from Vietnam

This section helps you estimate customs clearance and tax-related costs when importing Vietnamese pepper. These expenses directly affect the landed cost and profit margins. Typically, customs systems classify pepper based on its form (whole or crushed/ground), rather than by grade (like 500GL or 550GL). The general HS Code root for pepper is 0904, which covers both black and white pepper.

However, each country uses specific sub-codes and duty rates under its own classification systems. For example, the United States uses the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) and the European Union uses the CN (Combined Nomenclature) Code under the TARIC system.

Info Type	Whole Pepper	Crushed or ground Pepper	Region
HTS Code	0904.11.0000	0904.12.0000	US
Import duty	46% (Under development)	46% (Under development)	US
Tariff	10%	10%	US
CN Code	0904.11.00	0904.12.00	EU
Import duty	0%	0%	EU
Tariff	Zero	Zero	EU

3. Labeling and Packaging Standards

Next are the labeling and packaging requirements for exporting Vietnamese pepper to international markets. Because pepper is a food product directly consumed by end users, labeling and packaging standards must comply with both food safety and consumer information regulations in the importing country.

General requirements include:

• The label must include the product name, lot or batch number, net weight in metric units, production date, and best-before or expiry date
• Country of origin must be clearly shown as “Product of Vietnam.”
• The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or exporter must be printed on the label
• Labels must be durable, legible, and printed in the official language of the importing country
• Inner layers and contact surfaces must be made from FDA-compliant or EU 1935/2004-compliant food-contact materials such as PE, PP, or BOPP film.
• If the pepper is certified organic, the organic certifier code and inspection body must be stated on the label
• Packaging must use laminated kraft paper or woven PP bags with inner moisture barriers. Water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) must be ≤10 g/m²/day. Bags must be heat-sealed or tightly stitched, able to withstand 75%+ humidity and a 5–45°C temperature range during ocean shipping.

In countries like the U.S. and the EU, additional requirements apply. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to customs rejection.

For the US market, you must make sure:

• The label shows net weight in both metric and U.S. customary units (e.g., 500g and 17.6 oz).
• Artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, or a spice blend included in the product must be listed using FDA terms under 21 CFR §101.22.
• The label includes the name and address of a U.S.-based importer or distributor
• Packaging must comply with FDA 21 CFR 174–178 for food-contact materials.

The requirements for importing pepper from Vietnam to the EU market include:

• The label includes the name and address of a food business operator established in the EU.
• Mandatory label text must meet the 1.2 mm x-height rule.
• Organic pepper must show the certifier code and the EU organic logo.
• Packaging in contact with pepper must comply with Regulation (EC) 1935/2004.

4. Customs Clearance for Pepper Imports from Vietnam

If all requirements above are met, you can confidently proceed with the import. However, pepper from Vietnam has frequently been detained or rejected due to misinterpretation of documentation or overlooked procedural details.

From July 2025, under Circular 12/2025/TT-BNNMT, phytosanitary and food safety certificates must be issued by provincial-level authorities. Several EU-bound shipments have been delayed or rejected because the certificates were issued in incorrect formats or by non-recognized departments.

Ensuring that the label, invoice, and certificate of origin are consistent, and verifying moisture content and absence of extraneous matter also matter. Inconsistency between these factors is a frequent cause of customs holds.

Additionally, all certificates must carry the official stamp and signature of the issuing authority. EU and U.S. Customs require these authentic stamps for acceptance.

VinaSources: Leading B2B Platform For Sourcing Pepper From Vietnam

That’s everything about how to import pepper from Vietnam. Overall, pepper sourcing should not be difficult. The bottom line is to gather the right documentation from your supplier/exporter to avoid shipment delays or holds.

In case you’re unsure which supplier to go with, VinaSources can help. As the leading B2B sourcing platform in Vietnam, we connect you directly with verified local pepper suppliers and exporters and support you with all the necessary documentation checks, verification, and logistics coordination. Shipping and logistics will be handled to ensure compliance with import regulations and safe delivery. Everything is transparent.

Currently, our catalog includes Vietnamese white pepper and black pepper. Feel free to browse and explore our product listings and submit an RFQ to get quotes directly from us.