According to recent data released by the Vietnam Association of Aquatic Products Producers and Exporters (VASEP), the United States, Japan, and China remain the top importers of Vietnamese aquatic products.

Robust Growth in US Exports

In the first quarter of the year, Vietnam experienced a significant uptick in aquatic product exports to the United States, with a notable 16% increase in revenue, amounting to USD 330 million. Among these exports, shrimp saw a surge of 15%, accompanied by substantial increases in pangasius and crab exports, ranging from 13% to 53%.

Exports to China and Hong Kong also witnessed a healthy growth of 15% during the same period. The top five products exported to China include shrimp, pangasius, whiteleg lobsters, anchovies, and crabs.

Rising Demand in Japan

Vietnamese pangasius, in particular, has gained traction in Japan, with exports of this fish skyrocketing by 25% year-on-year. Lê Hang, the communications director of VASEP, highlighted this trend, emphasizing the growing appreciation for Vietnamese aquatic products in the Japanese market.

Forecasts indicate a promising outlook for Vietnam’s aquatic product exports, with expectations set between USD 9.5-10 billion for the year 2024. This optimistic projection underscores the resilience and competitiveness of Vietnam’s aquatic industry on the global stage.

Ambitious Goals for Agricultural Exports

While aquatic products flourish, Vietnam’s agricultural sector is also striving for growth. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phùng Duc Tiên revealed that in the first quarter, agricultural exports, excluding aquatic and forestry products, reached USD 7.46 billion. Looking ahead, the ministry aims to intensify trade promotion efforts to surpass the target of USD 55 billion worth of agricultural, forestry, and aquatic product exports for the year.