Vietnam tops global instant noodle consumption, 81 servings per person

HANOI, Vietnam – An average Vietnamese consumed 81 servings of instant noodles last year, the highest in the world, with demand rising for the second consecutive year, according to a recent report by the World Instant Noodles Association that ranked Vietnam fourth globally in total demand and first in per-capita consumption. The report noted that distribution of cup-type noodles is expanding in suburban areas, and the market continues to grow steadily, with the industry facing a more challenging cost environment amid changes in trade policy and geopolitical tensions.

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In Southeast Asia, Thailand ranked second behind Vietnam in consumption per capita at 58.6 servings, while Indonesia ranked third at 50.9, followed by Malaysia at 47.4 servings per year, and the Philippines at 37.1, with Singapore and Myanmar consuming the least at 17.9 and 15.3 servings respectively. In total demand, Vietnam ranked fourth globally with 8.23 billion servings last year, up 1.1 percent from 2024, with consumption having declined in 2022 and 2023 before increasing in the last two years, while China including Hong Kong continued to lead the world in total consumption at 43.27 billion servings, followed by Indonesia at 14.54 billion and India at 9.6 billion.

Global demand for instant noodles rose to more than 124 billion servings last year, up 0.7 percent from 2024, with the association stating that changes in United States trade policy and heightened tensions in the Middle East drew greater attention to raw material and product costs, while Asian markets experienced weaker export sales linked to geopolitical risks and rising input prices. Total demand for instant noodles in 2025 grew in all regions except Europe, with Asia continuing to lead overall growth while Latin America and the Middle East and Africa also recorded high growth rates.

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The report highlights the enduring popularity of instant noodles in Vietnam, where the affordable and convenient food staple remains a dietary mainstay across urban and rural areas alike. Industry observers attribute the continued growth to product diversification, improved quality, and effective marketing strategies that have expanded the consumer base beyond traditional demographics. The rising consumption figures also reflect broader economic trends and changing lifestyles, as busy urban professionals increasingly turn to quick meal solutions. Vietnam's position at the top of the per-capita consumption rankings underscores the deep integration of instant noodles into the country's food culture and daily eating habits.