Tiếng Việt
ไทยPhu Quoc dried squid is a highly sought-after delicacy thanks to its natural sweetness and the unique process of drying it right on the boat. This article will provide you with detailed information about the price of Phu Quoc dried squid, classification of jig-caught squid, secrets to identifying quality squid, along with shopping and proper storage experiences to retain its full flavor. Let’s explore it in the article below!
How much is the price of Phu Quoc dried squid? 2026 Price List Update
In reality, there is no fixed price for Phu Quoc dried squid because the price depends on many factors: the type of squid, size, dryness, timing of purchase, and the purchasing channel.
The price of dried squid often fluctuates according to the fishing season; the peak season is from November to March (calm seas, abundant squid), and the low season is from May to August (rough seas, scarce squid). Additionally, when buying directly in Phu Quoc, the price is usually 10 – 20% lower than buying through online channels because transportation and intermediary costs are not included.
The price list below is the latest compilation that you can refer to. However, you should confirm with the seller before placing an order because prices may change over time.
Phu Quoc dried squid price list by size (VND/kg)
| Size (pieces/kg) | Classification | Reference price (VND/kg) | Dishes |
| 6 – 8 pieces/kg | Premium jig-caught squid | 1,600,000đ – 2,200,000 | Grilled whole, can be used as a gift |
| 9 – 12 pieces/kg | Grade 1 jig-caught squid | 1,200,000 – 1,550,000 | Grilled, steamed, as a gift |
| 13 – 18 pieces/kg | Grade 2 jig-caught squid | 900,000 – 1,200,000 | Grilled, stir-fried, braised |
| 20 – 30 pieces/kg | Grade 1 net-caught squid | 800,000 – 900,000 | Family cooking, braised, stir-fried with lemongrass |
| One-sun dried squid | Grade 2 net-caught squid | 500,000 – 750,000 | Porridge, dried shredded squid, processed dishes |
| 30+ pieces/kg | Small squid / purpleback squid | 400,000 – 500,000 | Making broth, squid powder |
| No size classification | Phu Quoc one-sun dried squid | 650,000 – 850,000 | Freshly grilled, ready to eat |
Note: The prices above are for reference and do not include shipping fees when buying online.
>>> Refer to the dried squid price at Ola Squid now!
Why is Phu Quoc dried squid more famous than in other regions?
It is no coincidence that Phu Quoc dried squid is always classified as premium dried seafood. There are three core factors that create the difference, from natural conditions and processing procedures to the quality of the finished product.
Characteristics of the Phu Quoc sea region
The Kien Giang sea region, including Phu Quoc and surrounding islands, is one of the largest squid fishing grounds in Vietnam. The average depth of this region ranges from 30 – 50m, the water is clear and rich in plankton, creating an ideal environment for squid to grow.
In particular, the Phu Quoc climate has plenty of sunshine and strong seasonal sea winds. These are ideal conditions for drying squid right on the boat after catching without needing to bring it to shore for processing. The squid is dried in the natural salty sea air, absorbing a layer of trace mineral salts from the sea breeze, which makes the flavor richer and more distinctive compared to squid dried on land.
Traditional processing method: cut and dried right on the boat
This is the key point that creates the quality of Phu Quoc dried squid. Immediately after being caught by jig or net, the squid is processed right on the boat using traditional methods:
- Remove internal organs completely within minutes after being caught.
- Stretched evenly on drying nets mounted on the deck.
- Sun-dried continuously for 5 – 7 days under the sea sun and natural wind.
- No ice soaking, no chemical marinating to ensure the squid dries completely naturally.
Thanks to the method of drying immediately after being caught, the squid does not spoil, retaining its natural sweetness and distinctive aroma that is hard to mistake.
Comparison of Phu Quoc dried squid with dried squid from Quy Nhon, Co To, Khanh Hoa
| Criteria | Phu Quoc | Quy Nhon | Co To | Khanh Hoa |
| Distinctive taste | Mildly sweet, light sea aroma | Rich, strong sea taste | Sweet, thinner meat | Moderate, less distinctive |
| Drying process | On boat, 5 – 7 days | On land, 5 – 7 days | On island, 3 – 5 days | Mixed |
| Squid size | Large, even | Medium to large | Small to medium | Diverse |
| Reference price | High (most premium) | High | Average | Average |
| Best suited for | Gifts, premium grilling | Cooking, braising, gifts | Snacks, light grilling | Daily cooking |
Of course, there is no single best type; each has its own advantages depending on the purpose of use. But if you are looking for dried squid for gifts or to enjoy in its purest form, Phu Quoc dried squid is usually the first choice that comes to mind.
Classification of Phu Quoc dried squid
Not all dried squid sold in Phu Quoc has the same quality. Understanding each product line will help you choose the right one that fits your needs and budget.
Jig-caught dried squid – The most premium Grade 1
Jig-caught squid is the pinnacle of Phu Quoc dried squid and is also the most expensive type. Unlike net-caught, jig-caught squid are caught one by one with hand lines or night squid jigging, ensuring the squid body is not bruised or crushed together in a net. The body remains intact, the skin is not torn, and it has a beautiful shape after drying.
In terms of quality, jig-caught squid has thicker, more evenly chewy, and sweeter meat than net-caught squid. The color of jig-caught squid after drying is usually more uniform, with fewer spots or fading. Below are the characteristics and prices of Grade 1 jig-caught dried squid:
- Identification characteristics: Intact body, evenly shiny skin, few tears. Large, head and tentacles are intact.
- Price: Highest of all types, from 1,600,000đ to 2,200,000đ/kg depending on size.
- Suitable for: Premium gifts, grilling whole for pure enjoyment.
Net-caught dried squid
This is the most common type on the market, accounting for the majority of Phu Quoc dried squid production. The squid is caught by trawling or purse seine nets in large quantities, then cut and dried right on the boat following the traditional process.
Due to the nature of large-scale fishing, net-caught squid often has a less uniform shape than jig-caught, sometimes the body is slightly curved, and the skin may have slight tears. However, the meat quality is still very good if dried with the correct technique, and the price is much more reasonable than jig-caught squid.
- Identification characteristics: Body is even but sometimes slightly curved, skin may have a few small marks.
- Price: 500,000 – 900,000 VND/kg depending on size.
- Suitable for: Daily cooking for dishes: braised, stir-fried squid with lemongrass and chili, grilled squid.
Phu Quoc one-sun dried squid
Similar to Quy Nhon one-sun dried squid, the Phu Quoc version only goes through one day of strong sun drying, retaining most of the moisture and the fresh sweetness of sea squid. The difference is that Phu Quoc one-sun dried squid is usually made from large jig-caught squid, so when grilled, the meat is juicy and fragrant, exceptionally attractive.
One-sun dried squid is very popular at seafood restaurants and Phu Quoc tourist areas but is also the type that requires the most attention regarding storage because its shelf life is very short.
- Storage shelf life: 3 – 5 days at room temperature; 1 – 2 weeks in the refrigerator; 1 – 2 months in the freezer.
- Price: 650,000 – 850,000 VND/kg.
- Suitable for: Grilled to enjoy immediately, not suitable for long-term storage.
Phu Quoc purpleback squid
Purpleback squid (also known as ocean squid or long-tube squid) is a long-bodied, multi-tentacled squid species that lives in deeper waters than regular squid. In Phu Quoc, purpleback squid is usually smaller than jig-caught tube squid but has a rich flavor and the most affordable price in the group.
Dried purpleback squid is often used to make seafood broth, squid powder, or to prepare dishes requiring a lot of squid at a reasonable cost. It is less used for grilling whole because the meat is thinner and more prone to burning.
- Price: 450,000 – 600,000 VND/kg – cheapest of all types.
- Suitable for: Making broth, making squid powder, processing in large quantities.
How to identify quality Phu Quoc dried squid
There is no shortage of dried squid labeled as Phu Quoc on the market, but in reality, some originate from elsewhere or are processed using industrial drying methods instead of natural sun drying. To avoid wasting money, you need to know how to choose dried squid according to the following criteria:
- Color: Naturally sun-dried Phu Quoc squid has an ivory-yellow to light brownish-yellow color, slightly naturally shiny, not pure white or brightly yellow. The back of the squid is usually darker than the belly, creating a natural color variation.
- Aroma: Original Phu Quoc squid has a mild, dry, pleasant, and characteristic sea smell. No chemical smell, no moldy smell, no sour smell.
- Texture and weight: Properly dried squid is hard, firm, and light (because it has lost most of its water), making a cracking sound when bent. Squid that is not dried enough or pumped with water to increase weight often feels slightly pliable and heavier than normal.
Ola Squid provides quality dried squid with clear origins; customers can rest assured even when buying online without handling it directly.
Tips for buying Phu Quoc dried squid without being overcharged
Whether you are buying on the island or ordering online, to ensure you buy good goods at a reasonable price, you need to firmly grasp the following criteria:
Criteria for choosing a reputable supplier
Before considering the price, evaluate the seller’s reputation. A reliable supplier usually has the following characteristics:
- Transparent about classification and origin: Clearly state if it is jig-caught or net-caught, what size, how many days sun-dried to avoid general information.
- Show actual goods or actual photos: Do not use stock photos or photos that are unusually beautiful compared to the selling price.
- Clear return policy: Especially important when buying online if the goods arrive damp, not as described; there needs to be a specific commitment to resolution.
- Proper packaging: Vacuum sealing for one-sun dried squid; thick zip bags or vacuum sealing for traditional dried squid.
- Fast and clear response: When asked about the product, sellers knowledgeable about the goods usually answer in detail without avoiding questions.
Where to buy quality Phu Quoc dried squid
If you are in Phu Quoc, these are the three most highly-rated locations by users:
- Dinh Cau Night Market: Located right in the center of Duong Dong town, dried seafood here is concentrated with many stalls competing on price; sellers are friendly and ready for you to sample. Prices here are usually more affordable than at tourist souvenir shops.
- Duong Dong Market: This is the largest local market on Phu Quoc island, where locals buy and sell daily. Dried seafood here has prices closest to the original price, but you need the ability to bargain and distinguish good goods because not every stall has uniform quality.
- Ham Ninh Fishing Village – TL47, Rach Ham, Phu Quoc City: This is a reliable address if you want to buy squid directly from fishermen. The trading space is simple, not flashy, but the goods here are usually homemade dried squid, quality, at affordable prices.
What to note when buying in large quantities (wholesale) to get the best price?
Buying wholesale Phu Quoc dried squid can save significantly compared to retail, but you need to know how to negotiate and choose the right source.
- Buy from 5kg or more: usually receive a 5 – 10% discount compared to retail prices at most establishments. Some large hubs discount up to 15% for orders of 20kg or more.
- Prioritize suppliers collecting directly at the port: no intermediary traders, saving at least 1 – 2 levels of intermediate profits.
- Request a sample first: whether buying online or on-site, you should request a sample first. A reputable establishment will be ready to send samples or show actual goods.
- Order before peak season: Usually before November or after March to get better prices and guaranteed supply sources.
- Have a goods receipt record: clear when buying wholesale, noting the type, size, weight, and price to avoid later disputes.
If you are looking for a reputable Phu Quoc dried squid wholesale source for business or to buy in large quantities for an organization, refer to the agent recruitment policy at Ola Squid to receive quality dried squid at competitive prices.
How to properly store Phu Quoc dried squid
No matter how good the quality of Phu Quoc dried squid is, it will spoil quickly if stored incorrectly. Vietnam’s hot and humid climate, especially in the South. Below is how to store dried squid for a long time while ensuring it is still delicious and sweet when processed:
The most basic principle: Keep dried squid in a dry, cool environment, avoiding direct contact with humid air.
Storage methods based on usage time:
- Use within 1 – 2 weeks: Keep in a sealed zip bag or lidded container, placed in a cool place, avoiding direct sunlight. No need for a refrigerator if the weather is cool.
- Use within 1 – 3 months: Store in the refrigerator compartment (2 – 5°C), packed in vacuum-sealed bags or zip bags with air squeezed out. Take out what you need and open only that, avoiding letting the squid come into contact with air when not needed.
- Use within 6 – 12 months: Divide into small portions for use, vacuum seal, and store in the freezer (-18°C). When needed, move to the refrigerator to defrost slowly overnight, absolutely do not defrost with hot water or leave at room temperature for too long.
Note:
- Do not store together: dried squid with strong-smelling foods (onions, garlic, durian), the squid will absorb odors very quickly.
- One-sun dried squid: needs priority for cold or frozen storage immediately, do not leave at room temperature.
- Re-dry in the sun for 1 – 2 hours: if the squid is slightly damp, it can be dried again, but only if the squid shows no signs of mold or strange smells.
Thus, grasping the Phu Quoc dried squid price table along with classification criteria will help you choose a product worthy of the money spent. Hopefully, the sharing about reputable buying locations and storage methods in the article has provided useful information for your shopping plan. If you are looking for a source of quality dried squid, please contact Ola Squid for more detailed advice.
