Seafood Exports Off to a Strong Start in 2025
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Vietnam’s seafood export industry showed promising growth in early 2025, driven by a sharp increase in demand from China, particularly for premium seafood products.
Despite the Lunar New Year holidays, January 2025 recorded total seafood exports of over USD 774 million, up 3% year-on-year. China continued to play a pivotal role, fueling overall industry momentum.
China: The Driving Force Behind Export Growth
Rising consumer demand in China for Lunar New Year celebrations has been a key driver for Vietnam’s seafood exports.
Live and premium seafood such as lobster, crab, clams, and snails have drawn strong interest from Chinese importers—especially in the high-end market segment.
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Lobster exports reached USD 70 million, accounting for nearly 50% of Vietnam’s total seafood exports to China — a ninefold increase compared to January 2024.
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Sea crab exports surged to USD 18.5 million, up 18 times from the same period last year.
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Thanks to the lobster boom, Vietnam’s overall shrimp exports rose 24%, making it the main contributor to the sector’s positive performance.
In contrast, exports to other markets saw declines, with key products like pangasius, tuna, squid, and octopus slightly decreasing compared to last year.
U.S. Market Outlook: Uncertainty Amid Policy Shifts
According to VASEP, Vietnam ranks among the top four countries most likely to be affected by new U.S. trade policiesunder President Donald Trump.
As the new administration’s tariff policies remain unclear, analysts estimate that it could take 3–6 months for the market to stabilize.
During this transitional period, both Vietnamese exporters and U.S. importers may seek to accelerate trade activities, potentially boosting exports to the U.S. in the coming months.
However, rising logistics and transport costs may accompany this surge in demand.
China’s Premium Seafood Segment Continues to Expand
While mainstream products like whiteleg shrimp and pangasius may face tougher competition from China’s domestic supply, demand for live and fresh seafood—such as lobster, crab, clams, and snails—continues to grow rapidly among China’s high-end consumers.
With reduced seafood supply from the U.S., Vietnam stands to benefit significantly from this market dynamic, especially in 2025, as it strengthens its position as a key supplier of fresh and live seafood to China.
VASEP’s Recommendations for Exporters
Given the volatile global trade environment, VASEP recommends that Vietnamese seafood exporters:
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Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions.
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Build resilient sourcing strategies using both domestic and imported raw materials.
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Stay updated on market trends and adapt product-market structures flexibly.
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Ensure strict quality control, traceability, and transparency to maintain credibility and expand market share in 2025.
Outlook: Sustainable Growth Through Quality and Adaptability
With rising demand in major markets and shifting trade conditions, Vietnam’s seafood industry is poised to maintain steady growth in 2025.
The combination of premium seafood exports to China, potential U.S. market opportunities, and strategic adjustments by Vietnamese enterprises signals a positive trajectory for the year ahead.