Vietnam’s seafood industry has kicked off 2025 with impressive growth, particularly in the shrimp and pangasius sectors. According to Vietnam Customs, shrimp exports in January reached USD 311 million, marking a 28% year-on-year increase. This strong performance reinforces Vietnam’s position as a key global supplier, with its shrimp now reaching 107 markets and territories worldwide.
China & Hong Kong: The Largest Buyers Amid Changing Consumer Trends
China and Hong Kong remain the top destinations for Vietnamese seafood. However, the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) has noted shifts in Chinese consumer behavior. The middle-class purchasing power is weakening due to:
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Slower economic growth
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Declining incomes among mid- and low-income workers
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Rising living costs
As a result, seafood—once a staple protein choice—is increasingly becoming an optional luxury for many households. This change signals potential challenges ahead for seafood exporters targeting the Chinese market.
Vietnam’s Shrimp Gains Ground in the U.S. Market
Vietnamese shrimp has strengthened its position in the U.S., now holding the second-largest market share, following Indonesia. This shift comes as India and Ecuador have scaled back their shrimp exports to the U.S.
Notably, Vietnam’s shrimp exports to the U.S. have shown a strong rise in demand for processed products:
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Shell-on shrimp exports: Slight increase
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Peeled shrimp exports: Surged by 21%
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In contrast, Ecuador and India each recorded only a 2% rise in peeled shrimp exports.
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Indonesia’s supply dropped by 15%.
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India still leads this segment with a 57% market share.
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Positive Outlook for 2025
Industry experts anticipate a favorable year for Vietnamese shrimp exports, with key markets such as the U.S., Japan, and the EU showing signs of recovery. Several factors contribute to this optimistic forecast:
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Increasing demand for Vietnamese shrimp in major markets
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The U.S.’s revised tariff policies on Ecuador and China, potentially giving Vietnam a competitive advantage
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Strengthening trade relations and market expansion opportunities
Vietnam’s seafood industry is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends. With strategic planning and continued adaptation to shifting market dynamics, 2025 could be a year of significant growth for Vietnamese shrimp exports.
