In the first half of 2026, China became Vietnam’s largest seafood market, surpassing the United States. This shift resulted from an importation of Vietnamese seafood valued at nearly $1.4 billion, a 40% year-on-year increase. This accounted for almost a quarter of the $5.7 billion worth of Vietnamese seafood exports, a rise of 11.4%, as per the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. Comparatively, the value of the U.S.’s imports was $898 million, while Japan, in third place, had $788 million worth of imports.
The rise in shipping costs has elevated China’s attractiveness due to its geographical closeness, according to Nam Viet Jsc, a seafood exporter. Furthermore, Le Hang, the Deputy General Secretary of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, noted that as the U.S. and Europe increased non-tariff barriers, many businesses turned towards China. She highlighted the U.S.’s requirement for businesses to provide extra admissibility certificates with a complex application process, particularly impacting tuna products. Additionally, shrimp exports faced high anti-dumping duties.
Another contributing factor was the frontloading of shipments to the U.S., which led to significant inventories for importers in the country. This occurred during a period when consumers were restricting their spending and leaning towards lower-priced products.
Hang stated that the growth in the first half was a reflection of the rebound in global demand and the adaptability of Vietnamese businesses, who adjusted their markets and product structures. Shrimp was the top export, valued at $2.3 billion (a 13.6% increase) and constituted over 40% of the total value. The demand from mainland China and Hong Kong primarily drove the growth. Moreover, exports of Pangasius, a white-flesh fish, increased by 12.1% to reach $1.1 billion, owing to Vietnam’s competitive pricing and the consistent demand in many markets.
However, Hang predicts an uncertain future for exports in the second half of the year due to potential U.S. protectionist measures and trade barriers, ranging from regulations associated with “forced labor” to imposition of quotas on products. She emphasizes that in this rapidly evolving trade landscape, businesses must stay updated, adjust export plans, diversify markets, and increase the proportion of deeply processed products to manage risks and sustain growth.
What factors have contributed to China becoming Vietnam’s top seafood market?
Shipping costs and non-tariff barriers in the U.S. and Europe have caused businesses to favor China. Additionally, China’s proximity to Vietnam makes it an attractive option.
What was the largest exported seafood product from Vietnam?
Shrimp was the top exported product, making up over 40% of the total export value and experiencing a 13.6% increase.
What challenges do Vietnamese businesses face in the second half of 2026?
They face potential U.S. protectionist measures and trade barriers, ranging from regulations related to “forced labor” to the application of quotas on products.
