Laos has emerged as a significant player in the tapioca starch trade, solidifying its position as one of the top exporters globally. Its impressive export figures, with Vietnam and China as key destinations, highlight the country’s growing role in meeting global tapioca starch demand. Meanwhile, Laos’ import volumes remain moderate, primarily relying on neighboring Thailand for tapioca starch supply.
Exports
In 2021, Laos made a significant mark on the global tapioca starch export market by exporting a substantial value of $52.7M, securing its position as the fourth-largest exporter of tapioca starch worldwide. Within Laos, tapioca starch held the noteworthy rank of the 31st most exported product, highlighting its significance in the country’s export landscape.
Vietnam emerged as the primary destination for Laos’ tapioca starch exports, importing a substantial amount valued at $25.7M. China followed closely with imports totaling $24.2M, while Chinese Taipei and Thailand imported $1.5M and $1.36M worth of tapioca starch, respectively.
Between 2020 and 2021, Laos experienced remarkable growth in its export markets for tapioca starch. China exhibited the highest increase, with an additional $18M worth of imports, indicating a growing demand for Laos’ tapioca starch. Vietnam and Chinese Taipei also contributed to this surge in exports, with imports increasing by $7.11M and $572k, respectively.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Asia | China | 24,195,577 |
| Asia | Thailand | 1,360,524 |
| Asia | Vietnam | 25,667,042 |
| Asia | Chinese Taipei | 1,495,380 |
Imports
In 2021, Laos imported $2.37M worth of tapioca starch, positioning itself as the 30th largest importer of tapioca starch globally. Tapioca starch ranked as the 481st most imported product in Laos, reflecting its moderate import volumes. Laos primarily sourced tapioca starch from Thailand, with imports amounting to $2.37M. Vietnam also contributed to Laos’ tapioca starch imports, albeit to a lesser extent, with imports valued at $628.
Between 2020 and 2021, Laos witnessed substantial growth in its import markets for tapioca starch, particularly from Thailand. Imports from Thailand saw a notable increase of $1.04M during this period.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Asia | Thailand | 2,374,279 |
| Asia | Vietnam | 628 |
Importing Tapioca Starch from Vietnam: A Reliable Partnership
Vietnam has emerged as a prominent supplier of tapioca starch to the Laos market. In 2021, the total value of tapioca starch imports from Vietnam amounted to an impressive $628. This significant figure indicates that Vietnam’s tapioca starch holds a strong position in the market and is poised to maintain its presence in Laos in the years to come. The reasons behind this sustained importation are primarily attributed to the product’s superior quality and competitive pricing.
Laos benefits from Vietnam’s tapioca starch exports, which provide a dependable supply of this vital ingredient. The substantial import value from Vietnam underscores Laos’ confidence in Vietnam as a trusted and preferred partner for fulfilling its tapioca starch requirements. With its consistent quality and competitive pricing, Vietnam’s tapioca starch has proven to be a reliable source that meets Laos’ demand for this essential product.
Tariffs
In 2018, Laos implemented an average tariff rate of 4.77% on tapioca starch imports. Notably, countries such as Angola, Burundi, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Botswana had the highest import tariffs, with a Most Favoured Nation duty rate treatment of 5%.
These tariffs aimed to regulate and protect Laos’ tapioca starch industry by ensuring a fair trade environment for domestic producers. The intention was to support the local economy, foster self-sufficiency, and safeguard national interests amidst global competition.
Source: BACI and General Statistics Office of Vietnam