Vietnam’s shrimp exports to Japan rise 14% in May, but face growing Indonesian competition

Japan is Vietnam’s third-largest single market, accounting for around 13% of total shrimp export value. Vietnam mainly ships value-added processed shrimp to Japan, with breaded, fried, and sushi-ready products making up more than 90% of sales. Whiteleg shrimp represents 67% of exports, while black tiger shrimp accounts for 18%.

Vietnamese exporters have maintained a strong position in Japan’s retail distribution networks, thanks to processing technology, product design, and quality control. However, competition is intensifying. Indonesia, which also faces U.S. tariffs, has been ramping up shipments to Japan and the European Union. 

From January to April, Indonesia’s shrimp exports to Japan totaled USD 101 million, up 9.4% year-on-year. Vietnam recorded over USD 150 million in the same period, up 12.6%, but the gap is narrowing. Japan has also increased imports from Ecuador (+49.9%) and India (+5%).

A sharply weaker yen has raised import costs in local currency terms, pressuring Japanese buyers. Strict food safety and quality standards also pose challenges for exporters.

Analysts say Vietnam may need to improve quality, reduce production costs, develop products tailored to Japanese tastes, invest in sustainable “green and clean” farming practices, and adopt more flexible pricing strategies to maintain market share. Businesses have called for stronger trade promotion, economic diplomacy, and better logistics to reduce costs and boost competitiveness in Japan’s demanding market.

VFM