Seafood exports are expected to grow strongly in early 2026.
According to the latest update from the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), Vietnam’s seafood industry recorded a positive start to 2026, with export turnover reaching approximately USD 1.7 billion in the first two months of the year, marking an increase of over 20% compared to the same period in 2025. This result reflects a gradual recovery in global demand and creates favorable conditions for exporters.
Shrimp and pangasius remained the key drivers of growth. Shrimp exports continued to show stable performance thanks to improving demand across multiple markets, while pangasius exports demonstrated a strong recovery after a period of slowdown.
In addition, marine products such as squid, octopus, crab, and mollusks also achieved positive results, recording double-digit growth rates. This highlights the effectiveness of product diversification strategies, helping Vietnamese seafood expand its market reach and reduce dependence on traditional product lines.
Notably, China and Hong Kong emerged as leading growth markets, playing a crucial role in boosting overall export performance. Meanwhile, some traditional markets such as the United States continued to face challenges due to high logistics costs and technical trade barriers.
Despite these encouraging signals, the seafood industry still faces uncertainties, including fluctuating transportation costs, stricter quality requirements, and increasing global competition. However, with the current recovery momentum and the proactive adaptation of businesses, Vietnam’s seafood exports are expected to maintain stable growth in the coming months.
