(seafood.vasep.com.vn) As climate change continues to intensify, Vietnam’s aquaculture industry is facing unprecedented challenges. Among the most affected is the Mekong Delta, where rising temperatures, saline intrusion, and lower water levels are disrupting the delicate ecological balance. In response, many farmers and enterprises are adopting climate-resilient pangasius farming models—marking a promising and sustainable direction for the industry.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) The integrated farming model of whiteleg shrimp and tilapia is gaining ground in Tra Vinh province, offering high profitability and greater sustainability for local aquaculture producers.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Vietnam’s pangasius export sector is showing resilience in April 2025, with signs of growth despite looming trade tensions with the United States. However, challenges remain on the horizon, particularly in light of the steep retaliatory tariffs announced by the Trump administration.

Tilapia is increasingly viewed as a promising aquaculture species in Tra Vinh province, particularly in the face of black tiger shrimp seed shortages and rising environmental risks in aquaculture. Under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Value Chain Development Project, several households have adopted integrated farming models combining tilapia and whiteleg shrimp, achieving both economic efficiency and improved pond environmental conditions.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) In March 2025, Vietnam’s pangasius exports to the U.S. reached USD 29 million, down 4% year-on-year. However, total pangasius exports to the U.S. in Q1/2025 amounted to nearly USD 69 million, marking a 6% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, March recorded the highest export value since the beginning of the year.

The People’s Committee of Dong Thap Province has officially approved the “Management Plan for Commercial Pangasius Farming Zones through 2030, with Vision to 2050.” The plan aims to optimize the utilization of land, technology, and resources; promote sustainable development; adapt to climate change; and enhance the value-added of pangasius products - thereby improving farmers’ income and facilitating the structural transformation of the agricultural sector.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Despite a drop in revenue, Vinh Hoan Corporation (HoSE: VHC) reported an 11% year-on-year increase in net profit for Q1 2025, reaching nearly VND 211 billion, driven by lower farming costs and improved selling prices.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) According to data from Vietnam Customs, in March 2025, Vietnam’s pangasius exports reached USD 182 million, up 21% from the previous month and 16% year-on-year. Robust demand from Vietnam’s two key export destinations - the United States and China - continues to play a pivotal role in driving the outbound flow of pangasius products beyond national borders.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) A total of 40 finalists have been selected for the Seafood Excellence Global Awards 2025, to be held during the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Spain, from May 6 to 8, 2025.

(seafood.vasep.com.vn) One of the main drivers of growth in the tilapia industry today is the increasing demand for affordable protein sources, as consumers continue to prioritize healthier diets, positioning tilapia as a preferred choice.

The United States is the world’s largest importer of tilapia, while China remains the leading global exporter of this species. However, facing a tariff rate as high as 150%, Chinese tilapia is rapidly losing access to the U.S. market. This development presents a significant opportunity for other exporting countries, including Vietnam, to expand their market share in the U.S. in the coming period.

As of March and the first quarter of 2025, the fisheries sector has recorded positive growth in both aquaculture and capture fisheries.

On the morning of April 17, in Can Tho City, the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), in collaboration with the Directorate of Fisheries and Fisheries Surveillance under the Can Tho Department of Agriculture and Environment, successfully organized the seminar titled “Solutions for organizing tilapia production and export in 2025.”

In February 2025, the total aquaculture area across Vinh Long Province reached 1,987 hectares, of which 298.6 hectares were dedicated to industrial pangasius farming.

Beyond frozen pangasius fillets, value-added products like fish cakes, fish balls, and peeled IQF shrimp can meet the demand for convenience in urban supermarkets and restaurants. Compared to premium products from Chile or the EU, Vietnamese seafood offers a price advantage, enabling market share expansion as Brazil prioritizes affordable imports.