The export market for Vietnamese tuna experienced notable fluctuations in the first month of 2025, with exports to most major destinations declining compared to the same period in 2024.
1. Export Value Drops 16% in January 2025
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According to data from the Vietnam Customs Department, the total export value of Vietnam’s tuna products in January 2025 reached over USD 66 million, representing a 16% decrease year-on-year.
2. Canned Tuna Exports Decline the Most
Among the product categories, canned tuna exports recorded the sharpest fall — down 36% compared with January 2024.
The main reason is the shortage of raw skipjack tuna from domestic fishing fleets, making it difficult for Vietnamese canned tuna products to compete in markets with free trade agreements (FTAs) such as the EU and CPTPP member countries.
Meanwhile, exports of fresh, frozen, and dried tuna under HS 03 (excluding frozen tuna meat/loins under HS 0304) were the only segment showing growth.
3. Exports to Major Markets Continue to Fall
Vietnam’s tuna exports to major markets — including the United States, European Union, Israel, Japan, and Canada— all declined in the first month of 2025.
United States: Down 2%
Exports to the U.S. fell slightly by 2%, totaling nearly USD 26 million.
U.S. importers had increased purchases in late 2024 to prepare for potential tariff hikes, resulting in high inventory levels in early 2025.
Moreover, concerns over President Donald Trump’s new tariff policy discouraged importers from signing new contracts — factors that may continue to affect U.S. tuna imports in the coming months.
European Union: Down 13%
Exports to the EU also decreased by 13%, with canned tuna shipments falling by 21% year-on-year.
Although tariff preferences under the EVFTA have resumed, the ongoing shortage of raw skipjack supply continues to constrain Vietnam’s ability to meet demand for canned tuna in this market.
CPTPP Markets: Japan and Canada Decline
Exports to CPTPP countries also weakened.
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Japan: down 26%
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Canada: down 36%
4. 2025 Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities
In 2025, the global tuna market is expected to remain volatile due to changing consumption habits, tariff policies, and supply-demand fluctuations.
However, free trade agreements (FTAs) between Vietnam and partner countries — such as the EU, UAE, Japan, and Canada — will provide important advantages for Vietnamese tuna exporters.
Still, meeting rules of origin remains a key challenge. Compliance with standards on traceability, sustainable fishing, and combating IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing is becoming a mandatory condition in most major importing markets.