In 2023, Vietnam's tilapia exports reached over USD 6 million, marking a 42% decline compared to 2022. The European Union (EU) remained the largest importer, accounting for USD 2 million, despite a 34% decrease. Notably, the fourth quarter saw consistent growth after a nine-month downturn. The United States followed, importing nearly USD 1 million worth of tilapia, a 71% drop from the previous year. However, December 2023 witnessed a surprising 78% month-over-month increase in exports to the U.S

Vietnam's shrimp exports in February showed mixed signals. While volumes decreased compared to January, they rose 16% year-on-year. Export prices continued to climb, largely driven by strong demand from the U.S. and China. However, challenges in pricing negotiations and tough competition from India and Ecuador are expected to slow recovery in March.

Vietnam's pangasius (tra fish) export sector is navigating challenges stemming from global economic downturns, trade disputes, and administrative delays. However, recent developments, including favorable anti-dumping duty reviews and shifting global trade dynamics, offer a glimmer of hope for recovery and growth.

A 60-day suspension of fisheries regulations in the U.S. has severely disrupted the industry. Critical meetings to set quotas and update rules have been delayed, especially affecting the Atlantic bluefin tuna fishery and other key species like cod, haddock, and flounder in the Northeast. The delay has shortened fishing seasons, reduced catch volumes, led to job losses, and decreased fish supply to the market.

Amid ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, this regulatory uncertainty has intensified challenges for fishermen — threatening livelihoods, food security, and long-term sustainability. Industry experts and lawmakers are urging the restoration of proper management to protect marine resources and ensure economic stability.

Vietnam's seafood export sector has demonstrated a remarkable recovery in the first quarter of 2025, achieving a total export value of $2.45 billion. This marks a 26% increase compared to the same period in 2024. In March 2025 alone, the export value reached nearly $889 million, reflecting a 20% growth and indicating sustained momentum despite signs of stabilization compared to the initial two months of the year.

In the first two months of 2025, Vietnam's seafood export industry demonstrated robust growth, with shrimp exports solidifying their role as a primary export commodity. According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), total seafood export turnover reached $1.423 billion, marking an 18.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, February alone accounted for $655.197 million, reflecting a significant 42.6% growth.

Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has approved a plan to develop sustainable lobster farming and exports. The goal is to reach $200 million in export value by 2025 through expanded farming areas, improved seed quality, and advanced technology applications.

The year 2025 brings fresh opportunities and signals a bright future for Vietnam’s seafood sector, particularly pangasius. After navigating market fluctuations and production challenges over the past two years, the industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability.

The first two months of 2025 have shown positive signals for Vietnam's seafood export industry, with total revenue reaching USD 1.423 billion, reflecting an impressive 18.2% growth compared to the same period in 2024. February 2025, in particular, witnessed a remarkable surge, with export value reaching USD 655.197 million, up 42.6% year-on-year.

According to the latest report from the General Statistics Office, pangasius production in January 2025 reached an estimated 102,500 tons, marking a 6.0% year-on-year increase. This growth is fueled by rising pangasius material prices in the Mekong Delta, encouraging farmers to expand their stocking activities while boosting procurement by processing enterprises to meet growing export demands.