Vietnamese shrimp secures premium space in crowded EU market
Vietnam’s shrimp exports to the European Union hit USD 376 million in the first eight months of 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year, making up 12.6% of the country’s overall shrimp sales. The growth highlights the EU’s position as a key market for Vietnam, even as global competition intensifies.
Germany led with USD 96 million (+23%), followed by Belgium with USD 79 million (+20%), the Netherlands USD 74 million (+3%), France USD 23 million (+14%) and Denmark USD 25 million (+9%). Germany, Belgium, France and Denmark were largely retail-driven, while the Netherlands continued to serve as a re-export hub.
EU imports near record high
Eurostat data shows the bloc imported 342,509 metric tons of shrimp in the first seven months, up 15% in volume and 19% in value to €2.28 billion. Frozen shrimp reached 217,700t (+21%), with value-added products at 31,602t (+21%).
Imports rose in both southern Europe including Spain, France, Italy and northwest Europe such as Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands. Annual volumes are expected to approach 400,000t, the highest in years. France could hit 111,000t, almost level with Spain’s 120,000t, opening new room for Vietnamese suppliers in retail and foodservice.
Ecuador and India step up
Ecuador remained top supplier with 140,055t (+38%), followed by India with 50,860t (+25%). Vietnam ranked third with 30,715t (+19%), worth €240 million (+22%).
Ecuador is also expanding in peeled and processed shrimp, segments where Vietnam has traditionally been strong. India has pivoted to the EU after US tariffs, though upcoming EU antibiotic regulations in September 2026 may pose hurdles, potentially creating an opening for Vietnamese product.
Vietnam’s outlook: quality over price
Vietnam’s shrimp exports to the EU are projected to rise 12-15% through year-end, finishing 15-18% above 2024 levels. Germany, Belgium and France are expected to drive growth, while the Netherlands will remain a redistribution hub.
Vietnam’s strengths lie in peeled vannamei, convenience products and certified black tiger shrimp, categories aligned with EU consumer trends and less directly exposed to Ecuador. Risks include raw material prices, currency shifts and tightening EU checks.
Industry sources stress that Vietnamese exporters need to pivot from price-based competition to quality and transparency. Certifications such as ASC, organic and carbon-footprint are becoming baseline requirements. Higher-value products, cooked-peeled, rings, marinated and ready-to-eat, are also viewed as key to sustaining competitiveness.
Exporters are urged to strengthen antibiotic controls, exceed EU compliance standards, and adopt flexible contract and pricing strategies. Partnerships with green retail chains and investment in digital traceability could further cement Vietnam’s standing.
While Ecuador and India intensify their push, Vietnam’s path in the EU market will hinge on scaling sustainability and compliance. Done right, the sector can both defend and expand its foothold in one of the world’s most demanding but rewarding destinations.
VFM
