Vietnam exported 47,660 tons of pepper in the first quarter of the year, earning $326.6 million, according to the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association.

The figures represent a year-on-year reduction of 16.1% in volume but increase of 38.6% in value.

The average export price is estimated at $6,711 per ton of black pepper and $8,617 per ton of white pepper, up 94.9% and 73.9%, respectively.

In March alone, local businesses shipped 20,244 tons of pepper worth $141.6 million, soaring 41.3% in quantity and 45.6% in value compared to the same period last year.

The US remains the biggest importer in the three-month period with 10,278 tons, followed by India 3,370 tons, and Germany 3,358 tons.