In the first quarter of 2026, Vietnam saw a nearly 8% increase in seafood exports, amounting to a substantial US$2.64 billion. A primary factor fueling this growth was robust demand from China.
During this period, China remained the central seafood importer from Vietnam, with purchases amounting to approximately $764 million. This figure represents an almost 45% year-on-year increase. In March alone, the country’s seafood imports exceeded $250 million, a growth of over 50%. Not only is China the largest seafood importer, but it is also the biggest consumer of Vietnamese pangasius.
The shrimp category witnessed significant growth, largely attributed to lobster exports. Despite this, exports of whiteleg shrimp, a key product in the U.S. and EU markets, remained consistent.
Other seafood types, including crab, swimming crab, and molluscs, experienced increased demand across Asian markets. Moreover, tilapia exports skyrocketed by 190% year-on-year, reaching an estimated $35 million in the first quarter.
China’s robust performance was instrumental in maintaining overall sectoral growth despite a drop in exports to several other markets. Seafood exports to the U.S. decreased by over 10% in the same quarter. This decline can be attributed to weak demand and technical barriers, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s Certificates of Analysis requirements and anti-dumping duties on shrimp. There was also a similar decline in exports to Japan and South Korea.
While exports to the EU remained largely stable, those destined for ASEAN, Australia, and several emerging markets maintained their growth momentum.
According to Le Hang, the deputy secretary general of the association, several factors contributed to China’s emergence as the primary growth driver. These include seasonal consumption, steady demand, and advantageous logistics conditions.
Increased consumption during the Lunar New Year boosted imports of whole shrimp, live seafood, and premium products. This seasonal surge contributed to a sharp increase in high-value items like lobster.
Despite this growth, Hang warned that these figures may primarily reflect seasonal trends rather than a long-term structural recovery. This is because the increased exports were partly driven by stockpiling and festive demand, which could lead to a moderation of growth in the upcoming months.
The seafood industry in Vietnam also faces intensifying competitive pressure, particularly from major suppliers like Ecuador. This competition underscores the need for diversification in Vietnam’s seafood industry.
However, the association remains optimistic. They project that seafood exports will continue to grow in the second quarter, with shrimp and pangasius expected to be the primary growth drivers.
What was the value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026?
The value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026 was US$2.64 billion.
Who is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood?
China is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood.
What has been the impact of seasonal consumption on Vietnam’s seafood exports?
Seasonal consumption, particularly during the Lunar New Year, has led to a surge in imports of various seafood items, contributing to the overall growth in Vietnam’s seafood exports.
