(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Entering 2026, Vietnam’s pangasius industry is recording many positive signals, both in terms of raw fish prices and export prospects. Export turnover this year is projected to reach approximately USD 2.3 billion. Amid ongoing volatility in the global market, diversifying export destinations, reducing dependence on major markets, and effectively leveraging free trade agreements (FTAs) are considered key to maintaining sustainable growth and creating new momentum for the pangasius sector.
In the early months of 2026, raw pangasius prices in the Mekong Delta rose to VND 33,000–34,000 per kilogram, significantly higher than the same period last year. This price level has helped farmers improve profitability after a prolonged period of cost pressures and low selling prices, while also stabilizing production sentiment in key farming areas.
However, agricultural authorities advise that despite the current high prices, farmers should avoid expanding farming areas excessively. Rapid expansion could lead to oversupply in subsequent cycles, posing risks to both farmers and processors. Instead, producers are encouraged to follow seasonal frameworks, control stocking densities, and strengthen value chain linkages with enterprises to ensure stable market outlets.
Alongside output management, enhancing the brand value of Vietnamese pangasius remains a central objective. The industry is being steered toward sustainable value chain development, promoting high-tech applications, digital transformation in farm management, traceability systems, and compliance with environmental and food safety standards required by importing markets.
In key pangasius farming provinces such as Dong Thap and An Giang, local authorities are actively supporting farmers in accessing new technologies, reducing input costs, and improving production efficiency. Meanwhile, many exporters report that demand from major markets such as China, the United States, and Europe is showing signs of recovery, providing upward momentum for domestic raw fish prices.
With a combination of favorable market signals and a sustainable development orientation, the pangasius industry is expected to maintain steady growth in 2026 and beyond.