Introduction – Current State of Play: The Tapioca Starch Sector in Vietnam
If you’re in the food, pharma, or manufacturing game, you’ve likely felt the ripple effects of what’s going on in Vietnam’s tapioca starch market. From new trade policies to booming global demand, things are changing fast. And if you’re not paying attention, you’re probably missing out—or worse, falling behind.
In the past year, Vietnam’s tapioca starch industry has surged into the global spotlight. With revenue climbing past USD 1 billion in 2023 and exports already hitting nearly USD 484 million just from January to May 2024, the momentum is undeniable. This growth isn’t just about quantity; it’s about strategic shifts, foreign investments, and a government that’s laser-focused on making Vietnam a starch powerhouse.
With all this action, businesses need to stay sharp. Whether you’re sourcing, distributing, or investing, understanding the latest developments is non-negotiable. Let’s break it all down.
Deep Dive – What’s Making Headlines? Key Recent News & Impacts
📈 Market Growth: Global Demand Is Skyrocketing
Vietnam’s tapioca starch industry is riding a high wave of international demand. What’s driving it?
- Gluten-free diets are trending like never before.
- Food and beverage industries are craving clean-label thickeners.
- Pharma, animal feed, cosmetics, and textile markets are all expanding their use of starch-based inputs.
No surprise, then, that in 2023, Vietnam exported over USD 1.03 billion worth of cassava starch. That trend hasn’t let up—by May 2024, exports were already at USD 484 million.
🌍 Key Export Markets
Vietnam’s top buyers include:
- China (by far the largest)
- India
- EU countries
- Other Southeast Asian nations
Chinese importers like Xiamen Haixia Investment Co., Ltd., SDIC International Trade, and Xiamen Port Trading are leading the charge.
🏗️ Supply Chain Developments
Vietnam isn’t just growing cassava—it’s refining the entire supply chain:
- Major regions: The Mekong Delta and Central Highlands are producing 2–3 million tons annually.
- Full-cycle capabilities: From planting to processing, packaging, and export, Vietnam has it covered.
💰 Investment Boom: Global Eyes on Vietnam
Vietnam is being seen as a starch investment paradise. Why?
- Easy foreign investment regulations
- Strategic location in Southeast Asia
- Skilled labor and improving infrastructure
Recent highlights:
- Chinese enterprise MinhYang Biochemistry (of Guangxi Minhyang Group) invested $68 million in a modified starch plant in Binh Dinh—now the largest globally in its category.
📜 Government Support
Vietnam’s government isn’t sitting on the sidelines. It’s:
- Pushing for higher product quality
- Opening new export channels
- Supporting R&D and sustainable practices
So, in short? Vietnam is serious about starch—and the rest of the world is taking notice.
Top 8 Verified Tapioca Starch Suppliers in Vietnam – Navigating Current Market Realities
We’ve scoured the market and verified the top players on platforms like Freshdi, where buyer reviews, RFQ trends, and export performance shape supplier rankings. These are the best of the best as of Q2 2025.
1. ABIMEX GROUP
- Known for: High-starch content tapioca starch
- Strengths: Export-ready, consistent quality, strong buyer feedback
- Certification: ISO, HACCP, Halal
2. XNK Phong An Business Joint Stock Company
- Known for: Native cassava starch
- Strengths: Competitive pricing, tailored B2B solutions
- Certification: GMP, HACCP
3. GLOBAL GOWELL COMPANY LIMITED
- Known for: Tapioca starch-based noodles
- Strengths: Innovation in starch applications
- Certification: FSSC 22000, BRC
4. SOUTH VIET TRADING IMPORT EXPORT COMPANY LIMITED
- Known for: Dried and fresh natural cassava starch
- Strengths: Volume capacity, timely delivery
- Certification: ISO, Kosher
5. MINH ANH JML CO., LTD
- Known for: Fine white tapioca powder
- Strengths: Strong domestic logistics, scalable production
- Certification: HACCP, ISO 9001
6. Hung Thinh Southern Plastic Service-Trading-Production Co. Ltd.
- Known for: Industrial-grade starch
- Strengths: Custom packaging, B2B focus
- Certification: SGS certified
7. LHCFOOD CO., LTD
- Known for: Modified starch (E1412)
- Strengths: Versatile usage (food & industrial)
- Certification: ISO, Halal, Kosher
8. BAC HONG LAM TRADE JOINT STOCK COMPANY
- Known for: High-purity native starch
- Strengths: Transparent operations, quality management
- Certification: Halal, ISO 22000
Dynamic Ranking Note: Supplier rankings, such as “Top Exporter of the Month” or “Most Viewed Supplier,” are updated regularly on Freshdi depending on real-time RFQs, performance metrics, and buyer activity. Always check for the latest updates.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to The Prevailing Tapioca Starch Landscape in Vietnam
So, what should businesses be doing right now given all this action?
1. Diversify Sourcing to Hedge Risks
With geopolitical shifts and weather variables, it’s smart to work with multiple suppliers—especially those in different regions like the Central Highlands vs. Mekong Delta. This spreads your risk.
2. Focus on Modified Tapioca Starch
Given the new investment into modified starch production, especially with mega-factories like MinhYang’s, there’s a golden opportunity to secure industrial-grade or hot-swelling starch at competitive prices.
3. Monitor Regional Trends
Suppliers in Binh Dinh, Gia Lai, and Tay Ninh are increasing capacity. These areas are becoming hotbeds for innovation and export quality improvements.
4. Reassess Pricing Strategies
With rising demand and tightening logistics, prices can shift. Use platforms like Freshdi to track RFQ trends, supplier pricing fluctuations, and lead times.
5. Build Long-Term Relationships
The suppliers that are investing in tech and quality systems today are the ones who will be the industry leaders tomorrow. Now’s the time to build loyalty.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Dynamic Market
Vietnam’s tapioca starch sector is not just growing—it’s evolving fast. From hitting export highs to attracting record-breaking foreign investments, the country is positioning itself as a global starch hub.
Key Takeaways:
- Global demand is fueling market expansion across industries.
- Strategic investments, especially by Chinese enterprises, are reshaping supply capabilities.
- Government initiatives are aimed at boosting quality and export competitiveness.
- Verified suppliers on Freshdi offer a reliable route into this dynamic market.
In such a fast-moving landscape, businesses need more than just products—they need real-time intelligence and verified partners. That’s where Freshdi comes in. It’s not just a sourcing platform; it’s your eyes and ears on the ground in Vietnam. From live RFQ alerts to supplier verification and trend tracking, Freshdi empowers you to move fast and smart.
Checklist for Tapioca Starch Buyers in 2025
- ✅ Have you verified your suppliers via Freshdi?
- ✅ Are you monitoring RFQ trends and price shifts weekly?
- ✅ Have you diversified sourcing across multiple Vietnamese regions?
- ✅ Are you exploring modified starch options?
- ✅ Are you aligning with suppliers investing in scaling?
Future Outlook: What’s Next?
Looking ahead to the second half of 2025, we expect:
- Further expansion into EU and American markets
- Increased automation in starch processing facilities
- More sustainability initiatives from both government and suppliers
With the pieces in place, Vietnam’s starch industry is only going to get more influential. Stay informed, stay connected, and stay ready.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between native and modified tapioca starch?
Native starch is extracted directly from cassava roots and used as-is, while modified starch has been treated to improve texture, stability, or shelf life for specific applications.
2. How can I verify suppliers in Vietnam?
Use platforms like Freshdi for third-party verified suppliers, reviews, export data, and RFQ activity.
3. Is tapioca starch from Vietnam gluten-free?
Yes! Tapioca starch is naturally gluten-free and widely used in gluten-free food products.
4. Which regions in Vietnam are best for sourcing tapioca starch?
The Mekong Delta, Central Highlands, and Binh Dinh are top production hubs with robust infrastructure and export capacity.
5. How do I track price changes or demand trends?
Sign up for alerts on Freshdi, where you can track live RFQ activity, price updates, and supplier rankings.
References
- Vietnam Cassava Starch Export Research Report 2024 – Globe Newswire
- Vietnam’s Strategic Role in the Global Starch Industry – LinkedIn
