The next generation leads Vietnamese pangasius into a new stage of development

Building on this foundation, a new generation of young entrepreneurs – the “F2 generation” – is gradually asserting its role as successors, bringing innovation to the industry. As the pangasius value chain faces challenges such as shifting trade policies and environmental barriers, this new leadership brings fresh energy with flexible, modern thinking and a stronger orientation toward sustainability.

Many F2 leaders have studied abroad, gaining early exposure to global management practices and modern consumer trends. Their strategies go beyond boosting export volumes; they emphasize brand building, deep processing, and compliance with international standards such as ASC, BAP, and GlobalGAP – certifications increasingly valued by global consumers.

At Vietfish 2025 – the annual international seafood exhibition – the strong presence of these young entrepreneurs highlighted their growing role. They actively managed booths, introduced new products, and directly connected with importers from Latin America, the Middle East, and Europe, showing confidence and international business acumen.

A clear highlight of the F2 strategy is product innovation. Alongside traditional frozen fillets, they are expanding into value-added products such as breaded pangasius, cut portions, canned products, surimi, and even by-product lines like fish oil, fishmeal, and functional foods. This not only enhances added value but also refreshes the image of pangasius in international markets.

The younger generation is also more dynamic in market expansion. In addition to traditional markets, they are actively targeting new destinations such as Brazil, Mexico, and Halal-certified Muslim markets, while leveraging modern distribution channels like retail and e-commerce.

Beyond business growth, the F2 generation also demonstrates social responsibility and environmental commitment. They invest in circular aquaculture technologies, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and pay attention to worker welfare and farming communities. These practical steps reflect a sustainable development mindset – a crucial factor for maintaining and expanding pangasius’ presence in high-end markets.

The strong emergence of the F2 generation not only carries forward the achievements of their predecessors but also opens new directions, with the ambition of elevating Vietnamese pangasius into a symbol of “sustainable white protein” on the global seafood map. In a volatile trade environment, it is precisely the spirit of innovation and adaptability of this successor generation – alongside the legacy of the F1 pioneers – that will drive Vietnamese pangasius to overcome challenges and reach further in the future.

Source:  https://seafood.vasep.com.vn/