Shrimp exports maintain growth in August, face emerging headwinds

Vietnam’s shrimp exports hit USD 479 million in August 2025, up nearly 19% from the same month last year, bringing cumulative exports for the first eight months to USD 2.97 billion, a 23% increase. The sector has maintained steady growth since the start of the year.

Whiteleg shrimp remains the dominant export, accounting for more than 64% of total shipments. Black tiger shrimp posted modest gains, while lobster-type and other specialty shrimp saw triple-digit growth, driven by strong demand. Domestic raw shrimp prices remain elevated despite slight adjustments in early September, reflecting ongoing supply constraints.

China and Hong Kong continued to drive export growth, with August shipments up 62% and eight-month exports reaching USD 836 million, a 75% increase, representing nearly 30% of total Vietnamese shrimp exports. Demand is concentrated on fresh and premium products, including lobster-type shrimp and large black tiger shrimp, giving Vietnam a competitive edge over Ecuador and India. However, rising import inventories and softening spot prices suggest potential short-term market corrections.

Exports to the U.S. totaled USD 92.6 million in August, a 1.4% year-on-year increase, with cumulative shipments for January-August approaching USD 500 million. While the U.S. remains a key market, trade policy developments, including preliminary POR19 findings with higher anti-dumping duties and potential countervailing and retaliatory tariffs, pose significant challenges. Industry groups and authorities are working to protect exporters’ interests, and companies are advised to exercise caution on new contracts and explore alternative markets.

The EU market recorded August shipments of USD 66.9 million (+19%), with eight-month exports near USD 376 million (+17%). Germany, Belgium, and France are the leading destinations, while the Netherlands primarily serves as a transit hub. Vietnam’s advantages in the EU continue to be processed shrimp products with sustainability certifications and full traceability.

CPTPP markets also showed strong growth, with August exports exceeding USD 130 million (+40%) and cumulative eight-month shipments reaching USD 829 million (+36%). Japan and Australia are the main drivers, demanding convenient, high-quality shrimp, while South Korea and Taiwan maintained double-digit growth. Russia and Canada showed signs of stagnation.

Looking ahead, China and the EU are expected to sustain demand, while the U.S. market remains uncertain amid evolving tariffs. Vietnamese exporters are focusing on flexible strategies: diversifying markets across CPTPP, EU, and China; upgrading products with value-added certifications such as ASC, organic, and sustainable; and strengthening farm partnerships to ensure stable supply, quality control, and cost management.

Source:  https://vietfishmagazine.com/