Pangasius Shrimp and Key Export Markets
According to VASEP’s early-October estimates, Vietnam’s seafood export value reached approximately USD 9.1 billion in the first nine months of 2026. However, performance varied across destinations and product categories. China–Hong Kong and ASEAN recorded export growth, while exports to the United States, the European Union and Japan declined in September compared with the same month in 2025.
The figures reported by VASEP in October indicate continued export growth to Asian markets. These differences require exporters and international buyers to pay closer attention to sourcing strategies, product availability and purchasing costs. Growth in export value should not be interpreted on its own as growth in sales volume or end-consumer demand.
1 Export performance
VASEP estimated Vietnam’s seafood exports at approximately USD 9.103 billion in the first nine months of 2026, up 11.4% year-on-year. September exports were estimated at USD 1.135 billion, up 11.9% compared with the same month in 2025. These early-October estimates may be revised.
Despite overall growth, export performance varied across markets. China–Hong Kong and ASEAN were important growth drivers, while export value to the United States, the European Union and Japan declined in September year-on-year.
This divergence highlights the importance of monitoring individual market demand rather than relying solely on overall export growth when planning purchasing and sales strategies.
2 Product trends
Shrimp
Shrimp remained Vietnam’s largest seafood export category in the first nine months of 2026. However, its export value increased by approximately 3.9% year-on-year in September, indicating slower growth than the overall seafood export sector.
For buyers and suppliers, price competitiveness, raw material availability and order planning remain important considerations. Market conditions may differ depending on shrimp species, size, processing style and destination.
Pangasius
Pangasius continues to contribute to Vietnam’s seafood export performance. Its position as a versatile farmed whitefish makes it relevant to importers serving retail, foodservice and processing markets.
Demand conditions differ by destination, so buyers should continue to evaluate product specifications, target prices and shipment schedules when planning orders.
Marine Products
Several marine seafood groups, including tuna, squid and octopus, contributed to export growth. However, availability of wild-caught products can vary by species and fishing conditions, and should be confirmed for each order.
For importers, close coordination with suppliers remains important when confirming product availability, specifications and delivery schedules.3 Market developments
China–Hong Kong and ASEAN
China–Hong Kong and ASEAN continued to support Vietnam’s seafood export growth. Export performance and purchasing requirements nevertheless vary by country and product category.
Exporters should continue monitoring market-specific opportunities and adjusting their product offerings to meet local requirements.
United States, European Union and Japan
Seafood export value to the United States, the European Union and Japan declined in September compared with the same month in 2025. This monthly result should not be interpreted as a decline in every product category or throughout the full nine-month period.
For businesses serving these destinations, purchasing decisions may require closer attention to price competitiveness, product requirements and order timing. Diversifying target markets can also help exporters respond to differences in demand.
3 Outlook for Q4 2026
Vietnam’s seafood export industry enters the final quarter of 2026 with positive year-to-date growth, but market conditions remain uneven.
Export growth to China–Hong Kong and ASEAN is providing support, while weaker September performance in some traditional markets highlights the need for flexible sales and sourcing strategies. Product-level developments remain important, particularly for shrimp, pangasius and marine seafood.
For international buyers, early order planning, clear product specifications and regular communication with suppliers can help improve purchasing efficiency and reduce uncertainty around availability and delivery schedules.
VASEP expects export growth to slow in the fourth quarter. This is an outlook, rather than a confirmed result, and actual performance will depend on subsequent market and supply developments.
Hopefully, this information is helpful for your purchasing decision. Contact us to discuss product specifications, packing options, and your target market.
By AT Seafood Team
