Vietnamese seafood exporters race to boost shipments to the U.S. ahead of tariff deadline
Vietnam’s seafood exports to the United States are gaining momentum as businesses rush to fulfill orders before new retaliatory tariffs take effect on July 9, 2025.
While total export value to the U.S. in April reached USD 498.4 million, marking a 7% year-on-year increase, figures for March showed a sharp decline of 15%, equivalent to USD 120.5 million.
According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the downturn in March reflects the mounting pressure from the U.S.’s proposed countervailing duties, even though the implementation has been temporarily postponed. Key export staples such as pangasius and shrimp, which heavily rely on the U.S. market, have been hit particularly hard.
Higher import duties raise the final cost of Vietnamese seafood products, prompting American importers to explore alternative suppliers like India and Ecuador. Additionally, stringent food safety inspections and traceability requirements are diminishing Vietnam’s competitive edge.
VASEP anticipates a surge in seafood exports to the U.S. in May and June as Vietnamese firms attempt to make the most of the short window before the new tariffs come into force. Exporters are accelerating contract signings and adjusting pricing strategies to retain market share. Export value to the U.S. is expected to rise by 10 – 15% compared to April.
In contrast, exports to other markets such as China and ASEAN are likely to decelerate, with growth projected at just 3 – 5%. This slowdown stems from intensified competition with Chinese seafood products, which facing steep U.S. tariffs, are being redirected to domestic and neighboring markets, including ASEAN.
The influx of lower-priced Chinese seafood may undercut Vietnamese products, especially in price-sensitive segments. Meanwhile, exports to the EU and Japan are projected to maintain moderate growth of 8- 10%, thanks to advantages from free trade agreements. However, that may not be enough to offset the weaker demand from China and ASEAN.
As the deadline for U.S. tariff enforcement approaches, Vietnam’s seafood sector finds itself in a critical sprint, balancing urgent short-term gains with the need for long-term resilience in an increasingly competitive global market.
VFM
