Vietnam Cashew Export in 2025: Strong Momentum, Rising Compliance Requirements

Vietnam’s cashew nut export market

In the first half of 2025, Vietnam’s cashew exports reached USD 2.36 billion, a 20.4% increase year-on-year despite a slight drop in volume to 346,800 tons (–2.7%). The key driver was a surge in export prices, averaging USD 6,805/ton — the highest in the past three years.

Key Export Markets:

• China: Up 41.2%, accounting for over 22% of total export value.
• UAE, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, the UK, Italy, Germany: Recorded impressive growth, driven by demand for healthy snacks.
• USA: Flat due to high inventory and potential new tariffs.

Raw Cashew Supply: Price Fluctuations & Import Shifts

Due to Côte d’Ivoire’s tighter export restrictions, Vietnamese enterprises shifted raw cashew imports to Tanzania and Mozambique. Prices dropped from USD 2,050 to USD 1,350/ton, giving local processors a cost advantage and boosting competitiveness.

HS Codes & Export Taxes for Cashews

HS Codes:

• Raw cashew nuts (in shell): 08013100
• Shelled cashew kernels: 08013200
  

Tax Policies:

• VAT: 0%
• Export tax: Exempt under current regulations

Cashew Export Procedures

Cashew nut export procedures

According to Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC:

Required customs documents:

• Customs Declaration (via VNACCS system)
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Sales Contract
• Bill of Lading
• Phytosanitary Certificate

Read more: What Is a Packing List? Its Importance in Import and Export

Phytosanitary Requirements for Cashew Export

Cashews are subject to plant quarantine regulations under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).

Documents required:

• Business Registration License
• Food Safety Certification or ISO 22000, HACCP, FSSC 22000, etc.
• Product labeling
• Plant Quarantine Registration Form (Appendix IV, Circular 33/2014/TT-BNNPTNT)

Phytosanitary Certification Process:

1. Submit application to the nearest plant quarantine agency
2. Revise documents if required
3. Site inspection by assigned officers
4. Issuance of Phytosanitary Certificate

Note: Each export lot requires a separate certificate, even if the exporter has shipped similar goods multiple times before.

Complete Cashew Export Documentation Checklist

Cashew nut exports

To ensure smooth export, businesses should prepare the following documents:

1. Sales Contract – Clearly defines buyer/seller details, pricing, delivery terms, and quantity.
2. Commercial Invoice – Specifies total value, payment terms, and parties involved.
3. Packing List – Detailed breakdown of packaging, cartons, and weights.
4. Customs Declaration – Submitted electronically via Vietnam’s VNACCS system.
5. Phytosanitary Certificate – Issued by plant quarantine authorities to certify pest-free shipments.
6. Certificate of Origin (C/O) – Required for tariff preference. Forms include E (China), B (USA), EUR.1 (EU), etc.
7. Quality Certificate – Provided by recognized agencies (SGS, Vinacontrol, etc.).
8. Bill of Lading – Proof of shipment issued by the carrier (original or telex release).
9. Cargo Insurance (optional) – Protects against in-transit risks and liabilities.

Read more: What Are CO, CQ? Differences, Contents and Roles in Import and Export (Updated 2025)

Need Support with Cashew Export Procedures?

Exporting cashews to major markets like China, the US, EU, or Japan offers significant added value for Vietnamese businesses. However, to ensure legal compliance and maximize tariff benefits, every shipment must be backed by the correct documents — including commercial contracts, phytosanitary certificates, C/Os, bills of lading, and accurate customs declarations.

King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) specializes in providing end-to-end logistics solutions for agricultural exporters, especially cashew processors. Our services include:

• Tailored document consulting for each target market (EU, China, USA, etc.)
• Electronic customs declaration & HS code advisory
• International shipping & multimodal delivery
• Support with obtaining phytosanitary certificates & C/Os
• Comprehensive document management for audits & post-clearance

Contact our team now at +84 (0) 938 188 796 or via email at cs1@hcm.kfkingfreight.com for free consultation and tailored export solutions!