By the end of April 2023, Vietnam’s pangasius exports to most of the markets in the EU experienced a decline, the lowest decrease was 13%, the highest was 30% compared to the same period in 2022. Top 3 main markets in the block that reduce imports of Vietnamese pangasius were: the Netherlands down 22%, Belgium down 13%, Spain down 30%. Although exports to the German market were more positive, it still recorded a positive growth of 78% in the first 4 months of 2023.
The EU used to be Vietnam's largest pangasius import market with sales peaking at USD 511 million in 2010, accounting for 36% of Vietnam's pangasius exports. However, in the following years, pangasius exports to this market decreased sharply primarily attributable to media campaigns tarnishing the reputation of pangasius within certain European countries.
Vietnam’s pangasius exports to the EU had a breakthrough in 2022 thanks to a sharp increase in demand after being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for a long time (Cre: Huu Duc-BD)
Vietnam’s pangasius exports to the EU had a breakthrough in 2022 thanks to a sharp increase in demand after being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for a long time. In particular, the incentives from the EVFTA, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and a series of sanctions by other countries against Russia's economy and trade have increased the EU's demand for white fish imports from Vietnam.
Pangasius exports to the EU in the first 4 months of 2023 decreased compared to the same period in 2022 but still a positive result compared to the same period in previous years. This is also a remarkable number in the effort to gradually bring Vietnamese pangasius back to the EU market, after decades of being “lagged behind”.
However, the existence of varying market regulations within the EU poses a challenge for Vietnamese seafood exporters, including pangasius. It is crucial for businesses to diligently study and understand these regulations to effectively utilize tariff preferences and adhere to rules of origin when exporting pangasius to the EU market.
Compiled by Thuy Linh
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) With continued policy support, technological innovation and close coordination among authorities, businesses and farmers, Vietnam’s pangasius industry is expected to make a strong and sustainable breakthrough during the 2026–2030 period, reinforcing its position as the world’s leading exporter of the fish.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) During the first four months of 2026, Vietnam’s tilapia exports to Asian markets showed varying trends across regions and countries. The Middle East recorded strong growth, with Saudi Arabia emerging as the largest Asian market for Vietnamese tilapia. ASEAN markets also expanded significantly, driven primarily by Malaysia. Meanwhile, Japan maintained solid growth, while exports to South Korea declined compared to the same period in 2025.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Shrimp and pangasius continued to lead growth, helping seafood exports reach $4.67 billion in the first five months of the year; however, differentiation among product groups and increasingly stringent requirements from importing markets are posing many challenges for the industry.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Every day, the seafood processing industry in Ca Mau generates large quantities of shrimp heads and shells during processing operations. In the past, these by-products were largely treated as waste, increasing production costs and posing potential environmental risks. However, thanks to advanced processing technologies, materials once considered waste are now being transformed into high-value products, creating a circular economy model within the seafood industry.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Vietnam Clean Seafood Corporation has invested in a 280-hectare super-intensive shrimp farming zone in Tran De Commune, Can Tho City, generating export value of approximately VND 3 billion per hectare per year—around 50 times higher than traditional agricultural production.
(vasep.com.vn) Vietnam’s seafood exports reached USD 1.02 billion in May 2026, up 0.6% year-on-year. Cumulative exports in the first five months of 2026 totaled USD 4.67 billion, an increase of 11% compared to the same period in 2025.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) In a rapidly changing global seafood market, timely insights and reliable data are more critical than ever. The Report on Vietnam Seafood Exports in Q1/2026 provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in Vietnam’s seafood production, trade performance, and export trends, helping businesses navigate uncertainty and identify new growth opportunities.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) While many major markets continue to experience slow growth, Russia has emerged as a brighter destination for Vietnamese tuna exports in early 2026. Export turnover to this market increased by nearly 55% in the first four months of the year, indicating a clear improvement in demand. Nevertheless, Russia remains a market that should be viewed with both optimism and caution.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Vietnam’s pangasius exports have shown encouraging signs of recovery in 2026. In the first four months of the year, total export turnover reached USD 720 million, up 17% compared to the same period last year. This result reflects improving demand across many markets, as well as the efforts of Vietnamese pangasius enterprises to maintain production, secure orders, and adapt to changing market conditions.
(seafood.vasep.com.vn) In the first four months of 2026, Vietnam’s tilapia exports reached USD 49 million, up 151% compared to the same period in 2025. This impressive growth reflects positive momentum in the tilapia sector, with Brazil emerging as a key driver of growth, while frozen tilapia fillets continued to be the industry's leading export product.
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