China Pet Food Export Surges in Southeast Asia, Overtaking US

# China Pet Food Export Surges in Southeast Asia

According to GTAIC data, in the 12 months ending July 2026, China overtook the United States to become Asia second-largest supplier of retail dog and cat food by volume, behind only Thailand.

What happened?

Two connected developments:

1. Chinese retail pet food imports contracted sharply, removing demand for American products

2. Chinese manufacturers pushed outward into developing Southeast Asian markets at competitive prices

Why Southeast Asia?

Price alignment

Southeast Asia pet market is early-stage and price-sensitive. Chinese manufacturing value fits perfectly.

Proximity

Short shipping distances lower logistics costs. Overseas Chinese populations make the market receptive.

Local capacity gap

Southeast Asia local pet food industry is immature and relies on imports.

What this means for OEM/ODM brands

Domestic plus export dual track

Domestic competition is intensifying. Southeast Asia offers a growth outlet.

Choose an export-capable co-packer

Not every domestic factory can export. Confirm GACC registration and target market labeling.

Fresh food and freeze-dried are differentiators

Southeast Asia is dominated by extruded food. Fresh and freeze-dried products are relatively scarce.

Start small

Many Southeast Asian distributors accept small trial orders.

Risks to watch

• Price competition may compress margins
• Label and access requirements differ by country
• Currency and trade policy volatility
• Local Southeast Asian brands are emerging

If you want to build domestic sales while testing Southeast Asian export, Mixiaoqi pet food OEM/ODM operates fresh and freeze-dried export lines and can start with small trial orders.

FAQ

Which countries does Chinese pet food export to?

Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia are the main markets.

What certifications are needed?

GACC export registration is the baseline; some countries require local factory registration.

Can export and domestic production share one line?

Yes, but export batches need separate inspection and destination-language labels.