CaliToday (11/12/2025): As the calendar turns to the final weeks of 2025, Vietnam’s economy is witnessing a spectacular surge from one of its most traditional yet dynamic sectors. The nation's seafood industry is officially on track to set a new historic milestone, with export turnover projected to exceed $11 billion USD by year-end.
This impressive figure is not just a statistic; it represents a "beacon of resilience" in the 2025 economic landscape, cementing Vietnam's position as one of the world's top seafood powerhouses.
A Record-Breaking Milestone
Despite global economic headwinds and fluctuating consumption patterns earlier in the year, Vietnamese seafood has staged a remarkable comeback in Q3 and Q4. The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) reports that the $11 billion mark—previously an ambitious target—is now within arm's reach.
This achievement marks a significant recovery and growth compared to previous years, driven by a combination of high-quality aquaculture standards and strategic market expansion.
The "Big Two": Shrimp and Pangasius Lead the Charge
The historic revenue is largely fueled by Vietnam's two core export pillars:
Shrimp: Continuing to be the "king" of the sector, Vietnamese shrimp has maintained its competitive edge in premium markets like the U.S. and the EU thanks to deep processing technologies and value-added products.
Pangasius (Tra Fish): Of particular note to the Mekong Delta region (including An Giang and Dong Thap), Pangasius exports have seen a massive resurgence. Affordable yet nutritious, Vietnamese Pangasius has become a staple in high-inflation markets where consumers are looking for budget-friendly protein sources.
Driving Factors: The "Year-End Sprint"
Several factors have aligned to create this perfect storm for exports:
Holiday Demand: The festive season (Christmas and New Year) in Western markets has triggered a sharp spike in orders.
China's Reopening: Robust demand from the massive Chinese market has absorbed a significant volume of raw and processed seafood.
Tariff Advantages: Free Trade Agreements (such as EVFTA and CPTPP) are continuing to bear fruit, giving Vietnamese products a price advantage over competitors.
An Economic Bright Spot
"In a year where some manufacturing sectors faced slower growth, the seafood industry has emerged as a vital engine for the economy," an economic analyst noted. "Crossing the $11 billion threshold proves that Vietnam is not just an electronic manufacturing hub, but also a global leader in sustainable agriculture and aquaculture."