Pangasius exports hit USD 1.4 billion in first eight months

Vietnam’s pangasius exports continued to rise in August, reaching USD 200 million, up 5% year-on-year, customs data shows. Cumulative exports for January-August totaled more than USD 1.4 billion, a 10% increase from the same period of 2024.

Frozen pangasius fillets remained the mainstay, generating over USD 1.1 billion in the first eight months, up 11%. Exports of other frozen and dried pangasius products (HS03, excluding HS0304) reached USD 246 million, up 2%. Value-added exports under HS16 rose strongly in August, lifting total shipments of deep-processed products to USD 36 million for the eight months, a 32% increase.

Shipments to China and Hong Kong fell 4% in August to USD 55 million. By contrast, exports to CPTPP markets, Brazil, and ASEAN countries continued to expand.

Exports to the US totaled USD 234 million in January–August, up 3.7% year-on-year. Despite modest growth, the US remains a key market given its high value and technical barriers. Industry leaders say sustained growth reflects Vietnam’s strengthening position in the mid-to-high-end segment.

Exports to CPTPP countries climbed 36% to USD 242 million, with Japan, Canada, and Mexico leading demand. Tariff preferences and rising interest in convenient foods are driving growth, with the bloc seen as a long-term pillar for pangasius.

In ASEAN, Thailand imported USD 52 million of pangasius in the first eight months, up 31%, while the Philippines also rose 31% to USD 26 million. Malaysia and Singapore posted steady growth. Proximity and lower logistics costs continue to make ASEAN an important buffer market.

Exports to the EU reached USD 120 million, up 6% year-on-year. Demand for high-standard fillets in Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain remains stable, though meeting sustainability and traceability requirements is critical for future growth.

Vietnam’s pangasius exports are showing firm recovery in 2025, with softer demand in China and Hong Kong offset by gains in CPTPP, ASEAN, Brazil, the US, and the EU. The sector is diversifying markets, expanding value-added products, and consolidating its brand in higher-value segments.

Source:  https://vietfishmagazine.com/