Tuna exports to Spain grow, but long-term outlook remains uncertain
Vietnam’s tuna exports to Spain rose 10% year-on-year in the first four months of 2025, data from the General Department of Vietnam Customs showed. However, export values have dropped 29% over the past five years, reflecting a broader downward trend.
Industry officials say the decline stems from both domestic bottlenecks, such as limited raw tuna supplies and procedural inefficiencies, and growing competition in Spain’s market.
The Vietnam Trade Office in Spain said outlook remains bleak as Spain and the European Union advance free trade negotiations with key tuna exporters, including Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia, and members of Mercosur.
Forthcoming EU deals with New Zealand, Central America, Chile, and Kenya are expected to further open the market to competitors, particularly from Latin America and North Africa, who benefit from lower shipping costs and established trade relationships.
In addition, Spain’s €14.1 billion economic plan to buffer against global trade tensions, alongside stricter EU rules on animal health and edible oil standards, could further complicate Vietnamese exporters’ access.
Analysts say Vietnam’s tuna shipments to Spain may face prolonged uncertainty amid intensifying global competition and evolving trade frameworks.
VFM
