HCMC – Vietnam’s seafood exports reached an impressive US$10 billion in 2024, driven by surging shrimp and tra fish (pangasius) shipments, according to a report released by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) on December 23.
Shrimp exports led the way, totaling US$4 billion, a 16.7% increase from the previous year. Tra fish exports followed with US$2 billion, up 8.9%. Combined, these two categories accounted for 60% of total seafood export revenue.
Tuna exports surpassed the US$1 billion mark, achieving an 18% rise despite raw material shortages. Other fish exports contributed US$1.9 billion, while squid and octopus exports reached US$662 million. Crabs and other crustaceans added US$335 million to the total.
Nguyen Thi Thu Sac, chairwoman of VASEP, highlighted the sector’s resilience in overcoming challenges such as global inflation, geopolitical tensions, and rising material costs to meet its export target.
Phung Duc Tien, deputy minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, praised the industry for achieving its 2024 production and export goals despite adverse conditions.
Looking ahead to 2025, Tien emphasized the importance of addressing issues like compliance with the European Union’s IUU fishing regulations and adapting to climate change. He pointed to efforts to improve raw material supplies, expand markets, and boost processing capacity as critical steps to help the sector target US$11 billion in exports next year.
The ministry has called on stakeholders to prioritize improving product quality, food safety, adopting modern technologies, and diversifying markets to maintain growth momentum in the coming year.
