In September 2025, Vietnam’s seafood exports reached nearly US$991 million, a rise of 7.5% year-on-year. Over the first 9 months, the figure hit US$8.33 billion, up 15.5% from last year. This not only reflects the sector’s solid recovery after recent volatility but also highlights the adaptability of Vietnamese enterprises amid global trade barriers.
Shrimp and pangasius remain the key drivers
Within the product structure, shrimp continued to dominate, generating almost US$410 million in September, lifting the 9-month total to US$3.38 billion (+20.3%). Growth was fueled by stable demand from the U.S., Japan, EU, and rising orders from regional markets.
Pangasius also marked impressive growth, earning US$191 million in September (+11%), with a 9-month total of over US$1.6 billion (+~10%). Demand recovery from China, the U.S., and Middle Eastern markets has reinforced pangasius’ global position.
Other products also posted solid increases: marine fish at US$1.61 billion (+18.5%), squid and octopus at US$550 million (+18.7%), and bivalves at US$192 million (+30%). On the contrary, tuna fell slightly to US$705 million (-3.2%) due to intensifying competition in oceanic species.
Markets: China and Korea surge, U.S. slows
By market, China & Hong Kong remained the top growth driver with US$1.76 billion (+32.1%) in 9 months, despite a slight dip in September. The U.S. slowed, with September shipments dropping over 6%; however, the 9-month total still reached US$1.41 billion (+6.8%), constrained by anti-dumping duties (AD) and stringent Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) requirements.
Japan and the EU maintained steady growth, at US$1.27 billion (+15.6%) and US$885 million (+13.3%), respectively. Meanwhile, South Korea stood out with nearly 50% growth in September, pushing the 9-month total to US$645 million (+13%). ASEAN (US$536 million, +23.3%) and the Middle East (US$295 million, +7.6%) also emerged as promising “alternative gateways,” with September alone growing over 50%.
Agility in seizing opportunities
The impressive growth is attributed to exporters’ flexibility in boosting shipments ahead of new tariff and technical barriers. Many companies have restructured their market strategies, expanding exports to Asia while maintaining positions in traditional markets.
Notably, the focus on value-added and processed products that meet strict standards for quality, safety, and traceability has helped sustain competitiveness, particularly in mid- and high-end segments.
Mounting challenges ahead
Still, the sector faces considerable obstacles:
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Anti-dumping and countervailing duties in the U.S. and other markets narrowing profit margins.
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MMPA regulations exerting heavy pressure on wild-caught seafood.
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The EU’s IUU yellow card remains unresolved, affecting both reputation and costs.
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Growing competition from India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Ecuador, especially in shrimp and pangasius.
Strategic directions moving forward
Experts recommend three key areas for sustaining growth:
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Monitor global trade dynamics and policies closely to adjust strategies in time.
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Restructure export markets—alongside the U.S., EU, and Japan, further tap ASEAN, Middle East, and niche destinations.
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Diversify products and enhance value-added offerings to align with global consumption trends favoring premium, sustainable, and safe seafood.
Additionally, innovation in aquaculture and processing technologies, along with stronger national branding through fine dining and e-commerce, will be crucial.
In summary, Vietnam’s seafood exports crossed US$8.3 billion in the first 9 months of 2025, marking a strong rebound. However, sustaining this momentum will require businesses to remain proactive, innovative, and adaptable in the face of global trade challenges.
