Pangasius exports rebound as U.S. delays tariff hike
Vietnam’s pangasius industry has received a much-needed reprieve following the U.S. government’s decision to postpone the imposition of a 46% retaliatory tariff for 90 days.
According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the move has injected fresh optimism into the market, creating opportunities for both diplomatic negotiations and accelerated exports.
“This 90-day suspension is a critical window,” VASEP said in a statement. “It gives both sides time to pursue a solution that could prevent long-term damage, perhaps even eliminating the tariff entirely.”
The temporary pause has allowed Vietnamese exporters to resume stalled shipments and restructure their operations to build resilience amid ongoing trade tensions. Many companies have quickly resumed contracts and ramped up production to fulfill pending orders, especially in the pangasius sector.
Duong Quoc Nghia, Chairman of the Vietnam Pangasius Association, confirmed that export activity to the U.S. is back in motion. Current prices for Vietnamese pangasius fillets hover around USD 3.40/kg. Even with a base retaliatory tax of 10%, Vietnam maintains a competitive edge, particularly for value-added products like frozen breaded fillets and nuggets under HS code 16041990.
Market analysts have urged caution against premature optimism. “The suspension of tariffs is not the same as a cancellation,” stated VASEP. “Given the unpredictability of U.S. trade policy under President Trump, a reversal could happen at any time.”
VASEP also highlighted that ongoing trade tensions could have far-reaching effects, from increased input costs to disruptions in capital flows, potentially impacting Vietnam’s export sector for years to come.
“Vietnam’s open economy leaves it particularly vulnerable to tariff shocks,” VASEP cautioned. “Companies should take advantage of this grace period to expedite shipments while seeking to diversify into markets beyond the U.S.”
Vietnam still holds a strong position. As the U.S.’s leading pangasius supplier, Vietnam has built consumer loyalty in the white-fish category. With Chinese tilapia facing record U.S. tariffs, Vietnamese pangasius could benefit, provided pricing remains attractive.
According to Vietnam Customs, pangasius exports to the U.S. reached USD 13 million in the first half of March 2025, a 6% drop from the previous year. Yet cumulative data through March 15 shows a 10% year-on-year increase to USD 52 million, making the U.S. Vietnam’s second-largest pangasius buyer after China.
VFM
