Tuna exports edge up in August but face pressure in key markets
Vietnam’s tuna exports showed a slight rebound in August 2025, rising 1.4 percent year-on-year to just over USD 91 million after several months of slowdown. However, cumulative shipments in the first eight months of the year reached nearly USD 633 million, down 2.3 percent compared with the same period in 2024.
US and EU dominate, CPTPP markets gain ground
The United States remained Vietnam’s largest market, though August exports fell nearly 21 percent year-on-year to USD 29 million. The pace of decline has eased compared with earlier months, but new tariff measures continue to weigh on Vietnamese exporters. With a retaliatory tariff rate of 20 percent, Vietnam is losing competitiveness against suppliers such as Ecuador at 15 percent, and Indonesia and the Philippines at 19 percent.
The European Union held its position as the second-largest market, with shipments rising 6 percent in August to USD 17 million. The Netherlands and Italy recorded strong growth of 40 percent and 43 percent respectively, while exports to Germany rose 26 percent.
Exports to major Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) members also showed renewed momentum. Shipments to Japan surged 88 percent in August, while sales to Canada continued to expand. Exports to Mexico remained positive but slowed compared with previous months.
Beyond traditional buyers, Vietnam also posted gains in several emerging markets. Exports to Russia rose 17.8 percent, to the Philippines 72.4 percent, and to Thailand a sharp 248 percent, making it one of the standout growth destinations.
In contrast, shipments to Israel dropped 13.2 percent, underscoring the volatility in Middle East demand as geopolitical tensions continue to affect tuna trade to the region.
Vietnam’s tuna sector may benefit from stronger year-end demand, but exporters still face headwinds from fluctuating raw material costs, elevated logistics expenses and intense competition from other producing nations. The recent decision by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) not to recognize the equivalency of 12 Vietnamese fisheries, including tuna under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) is also expected to put additional pressure on shipments to Vietnam’s top market.
VFM
