Vietnam Probiotic Food Supplements Market - 2024-2027

Overview

The Vietnam probiotic food supplement market recorded a value of US$ 68,443.35 thousand in 2023 and is expected to reach a value of US$ 91,760.39 thousand in 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.74% during the forecast period (2024-2027).

The Vietnam probiotic food supplement market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising consumer health consciousness, increasing disposable incomes and a growing trend towards preventive healthcare. One of the primary factors contributing to the market's expansion is the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues, such as digestive disorders, obesity and weakened immune systems.

For instance, according to the National Library of Medicine, 2022, 10% of Vietnamese infants and young children had at least one Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). The most common FGID in infants was regurgitation and the most common in young children was functional constipation. Risk factors included gender, paternal education, household income, duration of exclusive breastfeeding and age of formula initiation.

Moreover, Vietnam's probiotic supplement sector is largely dominated by foreign brands, as local manufacturers have not yet developed the capacity or expertise to compete with established global players in terms of quality, innovation and production scale. For instance, in 2021, Vietnam imported about US$ 41 million worth of probiotics from the RoK, turning this Northeast Asian country into the fourth largest supplier in 2021, from the 8th position in 2017. This gap in domestic production creates significant opportunities for international companies to capture market share and meet the growing demand for probiotic supplements.

Drivers

Rising Incidence of Digestive Disorders

The rising incidence of digestive disorders is a critical factor driving the demand for probiotic food supplements in Vietnam. With increasing urbanization, lifestyle changes and the shift toward more processed foods, digestive health issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating and gastritis are becoming more common in the Vietnamese population.

For instance, according to an article published in Careplus, in 2024, IBS is a chronic disorder affecting the digestive tract. IBS is highly prevalent, with Ministry of Health statistics showing a significant incidence rate, affecting 10-15% of the global population. In Vietnam, it's estimated that over 14 million people suffer from IBS, yet only 30% of them seek medical attention.

Additionally, healthcare professionals in Vietnam are increasingly recommending probiotics for patients suffering from conditions like IBS and other chronic digestive problems. For instance, a product from GenaTech, a young start-up in Vietnam, GenaCillus product helps reduce dysbiosis symptoms, including irritable bowel syndrome, but also reduces the impact of hyper-processed food or food poisoning and heavy alcohol consumption.

Rise in E-commerce and Online Shopping

The rise of e-commerce and online shopping in Vietnam has become a significant driver of the probiotic food supplement market, as digital platforms make it easier for consumers to access and purchase these products. Vietnam's rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, supported by increasing internet penetration and smartphone usage, has transformed how consumers shop for health-related products, including probiotics. This shift towards online shopping has been particularly impactful in both urban and rural areas, where traditional retail access may be limited.

For instance, a recent report by Vietnam Ministry of Industry and Trade's E-Commerce and Digital Economy Department shows that Vietnam's e-commerce market recorded an estimated value of US$ 13.7 billion in 2021, accounting for approximately 6.5% of total retail revenue. This represents a growth of 16% against 2020. The market is also forecast to grow at an annual rate of 30% between 2021 and 2025.

In addition, online channels have enabled consumers in smaller towns and rural areas, where physical stores may not stock a variety of probiotic supplements, to access products that were previously unavailable. This geographical reach is crucial in a country like Vietnam, where rural populations make up a significant portion of the market. The ability to purchase probiotics online eliminates the need to travel to major cities for quality supplements, thus driving demand in less urbanized regions.

Restraints

Lack of Standardization and Quality Control

The lack of standardization and quality control significantly restrains the growth of the Vietnam probiotic food supplement market, creating challenges for both consumers and manufacturers. One of the key issues is the inconsistent regulatory framework governing the production, labeling and sale of probiotic supplements. Without clear, enforced standards for the strains used, dosage or efficacy claims, there is a risk that low-quality or counterfeit probiotic products may enter the market, undermining consumer confidence.

For instance, probiotic supplements require specific strains of bacteria that must remain alive and stable to deliver their health benefits. However, due to the absence of strict regulations, some products may not meet these standards, either containing insufficient quantities of live bacteria or using ineffective strains. In some cases, products may be labeled as containing certain strains, but upon testing, they may lack the advertised potency or even contain different strains altogether.

Segment Analysis

The Vietnam probiotic food supplement market is segmented based on ingredients, dosage, application, age and distribution channel.

Lactobacillus Leads Vietnam's Probiotic Supplement Market with Strong Consumer Demand for Digestive and Immune Health

Lactobacillus holds a significant share in Vietnam's probiotic food supplement market due to its established health benefits, adaptability to various food products and growing consumer awareness of its role in gut health and immunity. Known for its effectiveness in balancing intestinal microflora, Lactobacillus is widely used in yogurt, fermented drinks, capsules and functional foods, all of which are increasingly popular in Vietnam. This genus is particularly appealing to health-conscious Vietnamese consumers, who are influenced by global health trends promoting natural, preventive healthcare solutions.

Additionally, Vietnamese producers are integrating Lactobacillus strains into a wide range of products that cater to specific health needs, such as digestion and immunity, which resonate well with the local market's demand for functional foods. Lactobacillus is also favored due to its compatibility with plant-based formulations, aligning with the country's gradual shift towards vegetarian and vegan diets. Furthermore, Vietnam's tropical climate provides fertile ground for sourcing Lactobacillus-friendly raw materials, reducing costs and fostering sustainability.

Sustainability Analysis

Manufacturers are promoting sustainable practices, such as sourcing natural and organic ingredients to meet the demand for clean-label products. The Vietnamese government has launched various campaigns to promote healthier lifestyles, indirectly bolstering demand for probiotics as a preventive health measure. Many companies are also adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions, a response to Vietnam's anti-plastic initiatives and the country's push for greener alternatives in the food and beverage sector.

Increased investment in research and development, along with partnerships between local and international firms, could further enhance the sector's sustainability profile by advancing manufacturing efficiencies and improving access to affordable probiotics. In December 2022, policymakers, businesses and experts convened to explore sustainable solutions for Vietnam's health supplements market. The conference highlighted strategies to boost environmental practices and consumer health awareness.

Unmet Needs

One of the significant unmet needs in Vietnam is the lack of consumer education regarding the benefits of probiotics. Many consumers are still unaware of how probiotics work and their specific health benefits, leading to skepticism about their efficacy. There is a demand for more comprehensive educational initiatives that inform consumers about the science behind probiotics, their health advantages and how to incorporate them into daily diets.

While the market has seen growth in probiotic offerings, there is still a need for more diverse product formats and formulations. Consumers are increasingly seeking convenience and variety, which includes products like probiotic snacks, ready-to-drink beverages and innovative delivery methods such as powders or gummies.

Another unmet need is the demand for probiotics tailored to address specific health conditions or demographics, such as stress management, women's health or digestive issues in children. While general probiotic products exist, consumers are increasingly looking for formulations that target specific health concerns. This demand presents an opportunity for manufacturers to develop specialized probiotic blends that resonate with consumers' individual health needs.

Competitive Landscape

The major players in the market include Huro Biotech, LiveSpo, MERACINE PHARMACEUTICAL JOINT STOCK COMPANY, TRAPHACO JOINT STOCK COMPANY and KENUBIO INTERNATIONAL.

By Ingredient

• Lactobacillus
• Streptococcus
• Bifidobacterium
• Others

By Dosage

• Tablet
• Capsules
• Liquid
• Powder
• Others
  • Chewables & Gummies
  • Soft Gels
  • Others

By Application

• Gastrointestinal Health
  • Gut Microbiota/Microbiome Balance
  • Digestion
  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Leaky Gut
  • Inflammation
  • Immune System
  • Others
• Gluten sensitivity
• Abdominal Pain
• GERD/Helicobacter pylori
• Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea/Post-Antibiotic Treatment
• Gut Flora/Gut Microbiome Restoration
• Others
• Vaginal Health
• Urinary Tract Health
  • Kidney Stones
  • UTIs
  • Others
• Oral Health
• Anti/Healthy Ageing
• Allergies/Asthma
• Bone & Joint Health
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Osteoporosis/Low Mineral Bone Density
  • Inflammation
• Brain/Mental Health
  • Sleep
  • Cognition
  • Mood
  • Depression
  • Focus
• Cardiovascular Health
• Circulation
• Energy/Fatigue Reduction
• Metabolic Syndrome/Blood Glucose
• Liver Health
• Energy
• Immunity/Respiratory Infections
• Nutrient Absorption
• Skin-Hair-Nails
  • Atopic Dermatitis & Eczema
  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Hair Growth/Hair Loss
  • Skin Microbiome
  • Others
• Sports
• Women's Health
  • Fertility
  • Menopause
  • Pregnancy
  • Pcos
  • Vaginal Health & Health Vaginal Microbiome
  • Vaginal Infections (Bv/Vvc)
  • Pregnancy Outcomes
  • Others
• Men's Health & Men's Fertility
• Weight Management
• Pediatric Health
  • Colic
  • Constipation
  • Regurgitation
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Others
• Others

By Age

• Infant
• Children
• Adults
• Seniors

By Distribution Channels

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Pharmacies and Drug Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retailers
• Other Distribution Channels

Key Developments

• In May 2024, Malaysia-based GK Bio International, known for its expertise in fungi and probiotic supplements, announced to expand into Southeast Asian markets, including Vietnam.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the Vietnam probiotic food supplement market segmentation based on ingredient, dosage, application, age and distribution channel, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of Vietnam probiotic food supplement market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The Vietnam probiotic food supplement report would provide approximately 30 tables, 55 figures and 210 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies