Pangasius exports top USD 1.4 billion in Jan–Aug, CPTPP and ASEAN drive growth

Vietnam shipped USD 200 million worth of pangasius in August 2025, up 5% year-on-year, pushing cumulative exports in the first eight months to more than USD 1.4 billion, customs data shows. That marks a 10% gain from the same period in 2024, underlining the sector’s steady recovery.

Frozen fillets remained the backbone of the trade with sales exceeding USD 1.1 billion, up eleven percent. Other frozen and dried products contributed USD 246 million, a rise of two percent. Value-added pangasius under HS16, while still small, jumped thirty two percent to USD 36 million, reflecting processors’ quick response to demand for convenience formats.

The United States stayed a core destination with imports worth USD 234 million, up 3.7 percent. Although growth was limited, maintaining stable volumes in such a tightly regulated market shows Vietnam’s competitiveness in the mid to high end segment.

Shipments to CPTPP members rose thirty six percent to USD 242 million, led by Japan, Canada and Mexico. Executives view the bloc as a long term growth driver, supported by tariff preferences and strong consumer appetite for safe, ready to cook seafood.

Exports to ASEAN also surged. Thailand imported USD 52 million, up thirty one percent, and the Philippines USD 26 million, also up thirty one percent. Malaysia and Singapore posted steady gains. Proximity and shared culinary habits make ASEAN a “safety belt” market, helping offset risks elsewhere.

Sales to the European Union reached USD 120 million, up six percent, with Germany, the Netherlands and Spain as leading buyers. Analysts note that stronger sustainability, traceability and green consumption standards will be crucial to deepen market penetration.

By contrast, exports to China and Hong Kong slipped four percent in August to USD 55 million as demand softened.

Overall, Vietnam’s pangasius exports in the first eight months of 2025 show a solid but uneven recovery. CPTPP, ASEAN and Brazil are emerging as growth engines, while the United States and the European Union remain key pillars and China shows signs of stagnation. Market diversification, expansion of value-added production and stronger branding are seen as essential to sustain momentum.

Source:  https://vietfishmagazine.com/