(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Vietnam’s tilapia exports in April 2026 reached USD 11 million, up 92% compared to the same period in 2025. This strong growth indicates that Vietnamese tilapia products are continuing to penetrate and expand rapidly in international markets. Cumulative export turnover in the first four months of 2026 reached USD 49 million, up 151% year-on-year.
Brazil — the key market, accounting for more than half of total exports
Brazil continued to be Vietnam’s largest tilapia import market with an overwhelming share. In April 2026, exports to Brazil reached USD 6 million, accounting for 61% of total export turnover. Cumulative exports to this market in the first four months reached USD 26 million, representing 54% of the industry’s total exports, making Brazil the largest market in Vietnam’s tilapia export structure. However, Vietnamese tilapia exporters still need to remain cautious regarding technical and regulatory barriers imposed by different Brazilian states, as well as increasing competition from Brazil’s domestic tilapia industry.
The U.S. — second-largest market but facing significant pressure
The United States ranked second among export markets, but recorded less favorable performance in April. Export turnover in April reached only USD 2 million, down sharply by 42% year-on-year, mainly due to the impact of tariff policies and intense price competition in this market. Cumulative exports through April 2026 reached USD 10 million, up slightly by 3% compared to the same period last year, indicating that earlier months of the year still partially offset the sharp decline seen in April.
Potential markets continue strong growth momentum
Saudi Arabia recorded the most impressive growth rate among the top five markets. In April 2026, exports to this market reached USD 400 thousand, up 33% year-on-year.
The Dominican Republic also maintained positive growth momentum. Export turnover in April 2026 reached USD 300 thousand, up 23% year-on-year. Cumulative exports in the first four months reached USD 2 million, up 204%, showing that beyond Brazil, other Latin American markets are gradually expanding consumption of Vietnamese tilapia, creating a foundation for broader market diversification within the region.
Belgium emerged as the most notable EU market during the month, with April exports reaching USD 300 thousand, up 102% compared to the same period in 2025. In the first four months of 2026 alone, exports to Belgium reached USD 1 million, up 30%. Total exports to the EU during the same period reached USD 2 million, up 23%, indicating that demand in Europe is showing positive signs and gradually expanding.
The export performance of Vietnamese tilapia in the first four months of 2026 reflects remarkable growth, with total export value rising by 151%. However, the heavy concentration on Brazil represents a structural risk that requires attention, especially as the country is adjusting policies related to tilapia imports. The sharp decline in exports to the U.S. in April also highlights the need for close monitoring in the coming months. On the positive side, strong growth in Saudi Arabia and the Dominican Republic signals promising opportunities for market diversification throughout the rest of 2026.