Vietnam’s tuna exports to Finland rebound, opening gateway to Nordic markets

According to Vietnam Customs data, tuna exports to Finland reached nearly USD 2.5 million between January and July, up 49% from the same period in 2024.

While the value remains modest, shipments to Finland have grown steadily in recent years, rising from $1.7 million in 2021 to almost USD 4 million in 2023. The main products are canned tuna, alongside some processed and frozen items. Competitive prices, combined with tariff preferences under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), have strengthened Vietnam’s position against traditional suppliers.

Industry officials said Finland still accounts for only a small fraction of Vietnam’s total tuna exports, but the potential for expansion is significant. To capture more market share, Vietnamese companies will need to further improve product quality, meet strict food safety and sustainability standards, and build stronger brand recognition.

Global market conditions remain challenging in 2025, with volatile raw material prices, high logistics costs, and weaker consumer spending in Europe following inflation. Still, ready-to-eat seafood such as tuna, valued for its high protein content and affordability, continues to draw demand, particularly in the Nordic retail sector. Finland is also seen as a potential gateway for Vietnamese exporters to expand into nearby markets such as Sweden and Denmark.

However, Vietnam faces stiff competition from major EU suppliers including Spain and Portugal, as well as Thailand. Rising requirements for sustainability certification, including MSC and IUU compliance, are also likely to pose hurdles.

With exports up nearly 50% in the first seven months, Finland is emerging as a promising destination for Vietnam’s tuna industry, though regulatory and market barriers may limit faster growth.

VFM