According to the Vietnam Customs, Vietnam’s lobster exports continued to increase strongly in October 2025, reaching 93 million USD, up 75% compared to the same period last year.
The strong growth since the beginning of the year has brought the 10-month turnover to 712 million USD, an increase of up to 135% compared to the same period in 2024.
In the product structure, blue lobster still holds the leading position, accounting for 98% of the total value. Other types decreased slightly by 1%.
China and Hong Kong remain the most important growth drivers for Vietnam’s lobster industry. In 10 months, exports to these markets reached 702 million USD, an increase of 135%. This growth momentum follows the boom period from 2024, when export turnover to China increased from 141 million USD to 404 million USD, equivalent to 186%.
China is Vietnam’s largest customer for lobsters.
China imported nearly 49,900 tons of lobster in the first three quarters of the year, an increase of 13%. However, imports from Canada decreased by as much as 39% due to a total tax burden of 32%. Meanwhile, American lobster fell by 10% due to a 17% tax rate and increasing competitive pressure.
Tariff advantages are a decisive factor. The prices of Vietnamese lobster are significantly more competitive than Canadian and American lobster. A short distance helps reduce shipping costs. Additionally, Chinese consumer demand is changing strongly toward blue lobster. Another factor is that large lobster farming areas have recovered well in recent years, providing a foundation for Vietnam to meet the strong increase in market demand.
Despite strong export growth, domestic farmers still face many difficulties. Lobster prices once dropped due to supply exceeding demand after the holiday season. Also, competition from Australia, Canada, the United States, and Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia puts significant pressure on domestic prices. When China lifted its ban on Australian lobsters, Vietnam’s market share came under even greater pressure.
In addition to the price factor, the Chinese market is tightening regulations on quality and the registration of processing facilities. They could directly impact exports, especially for fresh produce.
In late November, the key aquaculture areas in Phu Yen suffered significant damage due to heavy rains and floods. With over 27,000 cages, this area is one of the most important lobster supply regions in the country.
In the short term, export businesses may not be impacted because year-end contracts have already been prepared in advance. However, in the medium term, damage to lobsters could significantly reduce supply in early 2026, causing price fluctuations and impacting the ability to maintain the current export growth rate.
China’s demand is forecast to remain high in the final months of the year and during the Lunar New Year period.
Overall, lobster remains the brightest spot in Vietnam’s seafood export picture in 2025, thanks to strong growth from the Chinese market.