Vietnam’s shrimp exports in October 2025 hit the highest level since the beginning of the year

Growth in October was strongly supported by whiteleg shrimp products and by China, which continues to show robust demand for Vietnam’s fresh and frozen shrimp.

China and CPTPP lead the expansion

In the first 10 months of 2025, Vietnam’s shrimp exports to most major markets increased. China & Hong Kong was the standout, reaching USD 1.1 billion, up 64% — the strongest growth among all markets. In October alone, this market recorded USD 140 million, maintaining the top position both monthly and cumulatively.

The CPTPP bloc reached over USD 1 billion in the 10-month period, up 33% year-on-year. October exports reached USD 121 million. This region provides stability thanks to steady demand in Japan, Canada, and Australia.

Exports to the US reached USD 702 million, up 9% year-on-year. October exports stood at USD 114 million, indicating sustained demand despite competition from Ecuador and India.

Exports to the EU reached USD 487 million, up 20% year-on-year. In October, this market posted USD 53 million, showing continued stable demand for processed, certified, and value-added products.

Notably, Taiwan recorded very strong growth in October, reaching USD 12 million—up nearly 80% from October 2024—highlighting expansion prospects in Asia–Pacific markets.

Whiteleg shrimp remains the core product; black tiger shrimp stable

Whiteleg shrimp continued to account for the largest share, reaching USD 2.5 billion, or nearly 65% of total 10-month export value. This product group recorded the highest growth thanks to competitive prices, large supply, and wide acceptance in major markets.

Black tiger shrimp reached USD 385 million (about 10% of total exports). Exports remained stable due to steady demand in Japan and strong demand for large-sized and eco-shrimp in China. Other shrimp products reached USD 991 million, a sharp increase year-on-year, reflecting growing production of frozen and deeply processed items that improve factory efficiency and target higher-value market segments.

Asia continues to be the key growth engine

Since the beginning of the year, Asia has been the strongest driver of Vietnam’s shrimp export growth. China–Hong Kong rose more than 60%, Taiwan surged in October, and Korea maintained mild growth. This shows improving regional demand amid gradual economic recovery, geographic advantages, and market diversification strategies in the context of US tariff pressures.

Meanwhile, the US, Japan, and the EU maintained stable growth, mainly in value-added and processed shrimp categories.

Shrimp exports are expected to slow in the last quarter, mainly due to US tariffs and other trade defense measures — a major challenge for Vietnam’s second-largest shrimp market. These pressures affect costs, competitiveness, and contract timelines.

If exporters continue to optimize value-added products, uphold quality, and diversify markets, the slowdown can be mitigated. However, the general trend suggests that Q4 growth will be slower or slightly lower than in mid-year months.