(vasep.com.vn) Vietnam is signatory to three new-generation Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and specifically with the United Kingdom (UK), maintains two FTAs: the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA). The confluence of content and approaches within these two Agreements fosters a conducive environment for enterprises from both nations to maximally leverage trade and investment opportunities, notably encompassing Pangasius exports to the UK.
According to data from Vietnam Customs, in January 2025, pangasius exports to the UK reached USD 4 million, reflecting a 30% decrease compared to the same period last year. This contraction in pangasius export turnover to the UK aligns with the broader trend of reduced pangasius imports across various markets, attributable to the extended Lunar New Year holiday in Vietnam during the first month of the year. Concurrently, the initial month of the year traditionally follows a period wherein nations expend considerable capital, in the trillions of USD, importing pangasius for stockpiling in anticipation of year-end festivities and seasonal celebrations in 2024.
The UK’s accession to CPTPP implies a reduction or elimination of tariffs, as committed under the CPTPP framework, thereby affording Vietnamese pangasius a price-based competitive advantage relative to non-CPTPP member competitors. Furthermore, CPTPP accession facilitates streamlined market access for pangasius exporting enterprises through the mitigation of trade barriers and the harmonization of standards. Vietnamese enterprises can also capitalize on the distribution networks and commercial partnerships of other CPTPP member countries. Whereas previously, Vietnam needed to meet UK quality standards, potentially distinct from those of other markets, which could entail elevated inspection and quality certification costs, quality standards are now harmonized within CPTPP. This harmonization serves to reduce expenditures and procedural complexities, enabling the leveraging of CPTPP quality certifications for exports to the UK. Technical barriers are also diminished due to regulatory harmonization within CPTPP, potentially facilitating technical support from CPTPP member nations to aid enterprise compliance. Moreover, Vietnamese pangasius exporting enterprises will be comparatively less susceptible to idiosyncratic UK market factors, as market diversification within CPTPP can mitigate risks.
However, the UK’s entry into CPTPP also intensifies competitive pressures between Vietnam and other CPTPP members, such as Canada, Australia, and Japan. Enterprises will necessitate vigilance in meeting elevated quality requirements and diversifying product offerings to satisfy market demands.
As one of the most comprehensive and dynamic free trade agreements globally, CPTPP presents substantial opportunities for economic growth and international collaboration. CPTPP presently comprises 11 member nations, accounting for 12% of global GDP.
Vietnamese merchandise exports to the UK currently possess a competitive advantage compared to exports from markets such as India, Indonesia, and Thailand, which lack FTAs with the UK. Nevertheless, to more effectively capitalize on tariff preferences afforded by this Agreement, enterprises must ensure the readiness and proactivity of raw material sourcing. Concurrently, prioritizing the enhancement of quality and supply capacity is crucial to augment market share within the UK market.
For further information pertaining to the pangasius sector, please consult: PANGASIUS SECTOR REPORT 2015-2024.