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Mady Nguyen

Exploring Its Versatility and Popularity of Soybean in Vietnam's Agriculture

Updated: Jan 8

Soybean is a versatile legume that has gained significant popularity in the agricultural industry. Its cultivation and consumption have increased over the years due to its numerous health benefits and various applications in the food and feed industries. Soybean in Vietnam - a country in Southeast Asia, has emerged as one of the leading producers and exporters of in recent years.

Exploring Its Versatility and Popularity of Soybean in Vietnam's Agriculture
Exploring Its Versatility and Popularity of Soybean in Vietnam's Agriculture

What is Soybean?


Soybean, scientifically known as Glycine max, is a legume that belongs to the pea family. It is native to East Asia and has been cultivated for thousands of years. Soybean is valued for its high protein content, which makes it a popular source of plant-based protein. Additionally, it contains essential amino acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious food choice.


Favorable Agro Ecological Zones for Soybean


Soybean is widely grown in Southeast Asia, North and South America. The homeland of soybeans is Southeast Asia, but 45% of the soybean growing area and 55% of the world's soybean production are located in the United States. The United States produced 75 million tons of soybeans in 2000, of which more than a third was exported. Other major soybean producing countries are Brazil, Argentina, China and India. The majority of US soybean production is either for livestock or for export, although human consumption of soybeans in this country is increasing. Soybean oil accounts for 80% of the cooking oil consumed in the United States.


Soybean is being grown in 25 provinces, Vietnam
Soybean is being grown in 25 provinces, Vietnam

Soybean In Vietnam…


According to statistics, soybean is being grown in 25 provinces and cities nationwide, with an area of about 65% in the northern regions and 35% in the southern regions. The provinces with the largest soybean growing areas of Vietnam can be mentioned as the Central Highlands, Nghe An Province, Bac Giang Province, Hanoi, Thanh Hoa. According to the Department of Crop Production, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, up to now, the country's soybean production has been We only meet about 10% of the demand. Every year, domestic enterprises still have to import a lot of soybeans to serve domestic consumption and produce animal feed

  • In 2014, Vietnam had over 120,000 hectares of soybean trees

  • Soybean output in Vietnam: 176.4 thousand tons/year (2014).

(Data from the General Statistics Office of Vietnam (GSO), 2014).



By harnessing the unique traits of soybeans, farmers can maximize yields and ensure the successful growth of this valuable crop. Soybeans are annual plants that belong to the Fabaceae family. Soybean is an annual herb, 0.5 to 2 meters tall. Stems slender, with white hairs.


Soybean cultivation techniques play a vital role in ensuring successful crop production and optimizing yields. Choosing suitable soybean varieties adapted to the local climate, soil conditions, and pest resistance is crucial. Varieties should be selected based on factors such as maturity period, yield potential, and market demand.



Currently, soybeans are grown on all continents in 78 countries. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), by 2009, soybean area increased to 98.8 million hectares, production reached 222.3 million tons, yield 22.49 quintals/ha, most concentrated in America (76.0%), followed by Asia (20.6%).


Soybean is a shining pearl for investors in the commodity trading market.
Soybean is a shining pearl for investors in the commodity trading market.

Soybean demand in Vietnam:


Domestically grown soybeans are processed into a variety of foods, from traditional to modern: tofu, soybean oil, soy milk, tofu,... In addition, soybeans are also used. make animal feed. Soybean dishes such as tofu, tofu, soy milk,... are produced and sold every day in extremely large quantities from small markets, shops to supermarkets and commercial centers nationwide.



Soybeans are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins (such as folate and vitamin K), minerals (such as iron and magnesium), and antioxidants. Incorporating soy-based foods into the diet can help ensure a well-rounded nutrient intake. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Eating soy products helps prevent breast tissue growth in women, which is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. Many studies have shown that soy is also effective against prostate cancer in men. Certain soy compounds — including isoflavones and lunasin — have potential cancer-preventive effects.


The Complete Nutrient Package of Soybeans.
The Complete Nutrient Package of Soybeans.
Vietnam has witnessed significant growth in soybean production over the years. The country's favorable climate and agricultural practices have contributed to its success in cultivating soybeans. According to statistics, Vietnam ranks among the top soybean producers and exporters in Southeast Asia. The Vietnamese government has implemented initiatives to support soybean farmers, including providing financial assistance, improved infrastructure, and access to modern farming techniques. Despite challenges such as pests, diseases, and market fluctuations, the soybean industry in Vietnam continues to expand.













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