Vietnam’s seafood export sector is booming, with a dazzling variety of products, from shrimp to squid and a plethora of fish species, serving global markets with sustainable and high-quality offerings. This thriving industry not only contributes significantly to the country’s economy, but it also offers excellent sourcing opportunities for international buyers.
According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), Vietnam’s seafood export revenue reached $8.6 billion in 2022, a notable increase from the previous year. This strong performance is primarily driven by key products, including shrimp, pangasius (a type of catfish), and various squid and octopus species.
- Shrimp, a staple of Vietnamese aquaculture, contributed a staggering $3.7 billion to the export value in 2022. With extensive farming systems in place, Vietnam has positioned itself as the third largest shrimp exporter in the world. Mekong Delta, the heartland of Vietnamese shrimp production, farms whiteleg shrimp, black tiger shrimp, and other prized species using sustainable and certified aquaculture practices.
- Another Vietnamese aquaculture triumph is the pangasius, a species of catfish native to the region, which plays a significant role in the country’s export economy. VASEP reports that pangasius exports stood at $1.7 billion in 2022, with the US, China, and Mexico being the leading importers.
- Squid and octopus exports, while not as large as shrimp or pangasius, are nevertheless an important part of Vietnam’s seafood exports, reaching $600 million in 2022. These species are mostly caught in the wild and are popular for their taste and versatility in culinary applications worldwide.
Vietnam’s seafood export success is attributable to the country’s commitment to sustainable and certified fishing and farming practices. The nation has implemented various measures, including Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certifications, to ensure the sustainability and traceability of its seafood products.
For prospective buyers, the advantages of sourcing seafood from Vietnam are numerous. The country’s commitment to sustainability ensures buyers can source responsibly. Additionally, the diversity of products guarantees a reliable supply of popular seafood items throughout the year. The established export infrastructure facilitates smooth transactions, from sourcing to shipment.
Buyers interested in procuring Vietnamese seafood can get in touch with the many seafood exporters and producers in the country. The Vietnam Trade Office provides a list of reputable exporters, ensuring reliable and responsible sourcing. A visit to the biennial Vietfish International Seafood Show, held in Ho Chi Minh City, is also a valuable opportunity to connect directly with suppliers and learn about the latest trends in Vietnamese seafood exports.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s thriving seafood export sector is a testament to its commitment to sustainability, product diversity, and quality. This wealth of offerings not only makes Vietnam a major player on the global stage but also an excellent source for buyers seeking top-notch seafood products. The robust industry data and statistics reiterate the potential of Vietnam as a reliable seafood supplier, offering a plethora of choices to international markets.
Data sources: Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).