(seafood.vasep.com.vn) In the first two months of 2026, Vietnam’s squid and octopus exports reached over USD 111 million, up 23% compared to the same period in 2025. This result indicates a positive start for the sector, reflecting early signs of demand recovery in multiple markets from the beginning of the year.
By product category, squid has emerged as the main growth driver. Squid export value exceeded USD 64 million, up nearly 30%, while octopus exports reached over USD 47 million, rising by more than 16%. This trend suggests that demand for squid products is recovering more quickly in the short term.
In terms of markets, Asia continues to be the key growth engine. South Korea remains the largest market with nearly USD 42 million, up almost 23%, followed by Japan with close to USD 26 million, increasing by around 8%. Notably, exports to China surged by more than 85% and to Thailand by over 41%, indicating a clear improvement in regional demand. In contrast, exports to the EU declined by approximately 14.5%.
Despite the positive outlook, the sector still faces multiple challenges. Like other Vietnamese seafood exports, squid and octopus shipments are affected by tensions in the Middle East. Ongoing conflicts in the region may drive up logistics and transportation costs while prolonging delivery times. Persistently high fuel and marine fuel prices also increase fishing costs, placing significant pressure on fishermen and the supply of raw materials for processing. In addition, domestic raw material supply remains unstable, affecting the ability to fulfill orders.
Furthermore, the EU’s “yellow card” warning on IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing continues to be a major barrier, impacting reputation and limiting market expansion in the region. In this context, to sustain growth momentum, businesses need to proactively adapt to cost fluctuations, diversify supply sources, and effectively capitalize on opportunities in Asian markets—which are playing a leading role in driving growth in the early months of the year.