Vietnam’s exports of fish cakes and surimi in the first 7 months of 2025 recorded strong growth, despite the unstable international market.
According to statistics from Vietnam Customs, the export value of surimi in July reached over 30 million USD, an increase of 23% compared to the same period in 2024. This figure contributes to raising the total export turnover in the first 7 months of 2025 to over 195 million USD, an increase of 28% compared to the same period last year.
South Korea and Thailand remain the largest markets for Vietnamese surimi and fish cakes, with export values reaching 49 million USD (up 21%) and 46 million USD (up 24%), respectively. These are markets that both consume directly and reprocess for distribution to neighboring countries.
In the CPTPP bloc, exports of this product group reached 31 million USD, an increase of 23%. Exports to Japan grew by 25%, reflecting a recovery in demand for traditional processed products. Malaysia and Singapore also recorded positive growth, at 19% and 21%, respectively.
Exports of fish cakes and surimi continue to grow.
In particular, exports to China and Hong Kong in July increased sharply by 104% compared to the same period last year. Overall for the first 7 months, this market increased by 57%, reaching USD 26 million, indicating strong growth in consumption and recycling demand in the region.
The EU has shown significant growth, with imports rising by 89% in July. In 7 months, exports to the EU reached 16 million USD, an increase of 47%, with Lithuania and Spain accounting for a large proportion.
On the contrary, the US market remains limited. The total value for the first 7 months was only 6 million USD, a slight increase of 2%. In July alone, exports to the US fell sharply by 74% due to the impact of countervailing duty and caution from importers.
The VASEP forecasts that in the second half of the year, Asian markets will continue to drive the growth of Vietnam’s fish cake and surimi exports due to stable demand and price flexibility. The EU is expected to maintain its recovery momentum, with consumer trends focusing on convenient, small-packaged products. The China-Hong Kong market has strong growth potential, but competition will be fierce with supply from Russia and ASEAN.
The US is considered the most unpredictable market. Businesses need to be cautious when signing contracts and should only finalize orders once they have clear information about the applicable tax rates.
To maintain growth momentum and overcome difficulties, businesses need to stabilize raw material sources, improve product quality, and meet international standards. At the same time, it is necessary to diversify export markets, exploit niche markets, and strengthen the development of value-added products. Close coordination with relevant authorities in facilitating procedures and promoting trade is also a key factor.