Vietnam’s exports of pangasius and tuna showed encouraging momentum in January 2026, posting solid growth across several key markets. However, trade barriers, particularly tariffs and technical regulations in the United States, remain factors the industry will need to watch closely in the months ahead.
Pangasius exports surge, China drives demand
According to Vietnam Customs data, pangasius exports reached USD 212 million in January 2026, up 59% year-on-year. The sharp increase was largely driven by strong seasonal demand ahead of major holidays and a recovery in several overseas markets.
China remained by far the standout market, with exports climbing to USD 68 million, up 135% and accounting for 32% of total shipments. Demand was boosted by the later timing of the Lunar New Year compared with 2025, concentrating orders in January.
Shipments to the United States totaled USD 20 million, up 13%, signaling a modest recovery, although the market remains cautious amid price competition and the lingering effects of earlier reciprocal tariff measures.
Meanwhile, Brazil continued to show strong growth, with imports reaching USD 18 million, up 47%, reinforcing its status as a promising market in South America.
By region, China–Hong Kong led with USD 72 million, up 129%, followed by CPTPP markets at USD 37 million (+52%), ASEAN at USD 20 million (+49%), the EU at USD 15 million (+17%), and the Middle East at USD 14 million (+50%).
In terms of product mix, frozen pangasius continued to dominate exports. Products under HS03 totaled USD 209 million, accounting for 98.4% of shipments, with frozen fillets reaching USD 175 million, up 62%. By contrast, value-added products under HS16 generated only USD 3 million, highlighting significant room for expansion in processed segments.
Tuna posts modest gains as US market tightens
Vietnam’s tuna exports totaled more than USD 75 million in January 2026, up 13% year-on-year. Growth was recorded in several major markets including Japan, the EU and Russia, while shipments to the United States declined 6%.
Despite the drop, the US remained the largest destination with USD 24 million, representing 32% of total exports. The decline was largely attributed to changes in import policies and stricter compliance requirements under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), which took effect at the start of 2026. Exporters are now required to submit additional certification and face more rigorous inspection procedures.
On a more positive note, several markets posted strong growth, including Japan (+95%), Germany (+39%), the Netherlands (+15%), Egypt (+129%), and Chile (+133%).
The trend toward market diversification is also evident, with exports to the EU rising 25%, CPTPP markets up 53%, and the Middle East increasing 35%.
According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), tuna exports are likely to maintain an upward trajectory in the early months of 2026, though growth may remain moderate due to tariffs and technical barriers in the US market. Amid ongoing volatility in global trade, expanding into new markets and boosting value-added products will be key strategies for sustaining export growth.
VFM
