Tuna exports to Germany fall on raw material shortage
Vietnam’s shipments of processed and canned tuna to Germany fell sharply in the first five months of 2025, as domestic raw material shortages weighed on the sector’s ability to meet export demand.
Exports to Germany totaled just under USD 11 million between January and May, down 33% from the same period last year, according to Vietnam Customs. Processed and canned tuna made up more than 68% of total exports, while frozen loins accounted for most of the rest.
Despite an 81% jump in frozen loin exports, the steep 48% drop in processed and canned products dragged overall trade lower. Exporters blamed a shortage of domestically caught skipjack tuna, which left processors unable to fulfill orders. While EU-sourced raw material can be imported to meet origin requirements and access preferential tariffs, the added cost undercuts Vietnam’s price competitiveness.
Germany remains one of Europe’s largest tuna importers, with strong demand for high-protein, convenient products, particularly those with MSC sustainability certification, according to EUMOFA data. However, Eurostat figures indicate a modest decline in Germany’s overall tuna imports amid economic headwinds and high living costs, making price a more decisive factor for buyers.
Facing U.S. tariff hikes, Vietnamese firms are shifting focus to EU and Asian markets. Industry leaders are calling for stronger government support to address raw material constraints, speed up catch documentation processes, and ensure a stable supply chain to sustain export growth.
VFM
