The latest data from Vietnam Customs shows that in August 2025, the export value of catfish reached 200 million USD, an increase of 5% compared to August 2024. In the first 8 months of the year, this item has brought in over 1.4 billion USD, an increase of 10% compared to the same period last year.
Regarding product structure, frozen catfish fillets remain the key product in this category, with over 1.1 billion USD. Exports of dried and other frozen products were 246 million USD, up 2% compared to the same period last year. Notably, processed products HS16 also recorded outstanding growth during the month. By the end of August 2025, the export value of catfish reached 36 million USD, an increase of 32% compared to the same period last year.
Catfish exports have brought in over 1.4 billion USD from the beginning of the year.
Regarding the market, in the first 8 months of the year, exports of catfish to the US were 234 million USD, an increase of 3.7% compared to the same period last year, and they are considered quite stable. Despite low growth, the US remains the most important market due to its high value, strict requirements, and global influence. Maintaining growth in the face of complex tariffs and technical barriers shows that Vietnamese catfish is strengthening its position in the mid-to-high-end segment.
Exports to countries boosted by the CPTPP agreement reached 242 million USD in the first 8 months of this year, a 36% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Japan, Canada, and Mexico are important markets within the bloc, with diverse demand ranging from frozen fillets to processed products. The tax preference effect from the FTA, along with the changing consumer trend toward convenient and safe products, is opening up significant opportunities. CPTPP is therefore not only a short-term bright spot but also a long-term strategic area for the catfish industry.
Besides, within the ASEAN market bloc, Thailand imported 52 million USD, a 31% increase compared to the same period last year, while the Philippines imported 26 million USD, also a 31% increase. Additionally, Malaysia and Singapore are maintaining stable growth. With its geographical advantage, low logistics costs, and similar tastes, ASEAN is becoming a “safe haven,” helping the catfish industry reduce its dependence on distant markets with many technical barriers.
Catfish exports to Europe reached 120 million USD in the first 8 months of this year, up 6% compared to the same period last year. Although the growth rate is not high, the EU is a valuable market with brand recognition. Stable demand for high-quality catfish fillets, particularly in Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain, indicates long-term potential.
Vietnam is currently the world’s largest producer and exporter of catfish, accounting for 52% of global production and 90% of global trade. Its products are popular in many international markets due to their attractive flavor and competitive prices. Catfish is commonly sold under the name “dory” in most Southeast Asian countries. In Malaysia, locals call it “ikan patin,” and it is commonly consumed whole, steamed, or cooked with fermented durian in a spicy broth.