The export value of shrimp in 11 months of 2025 was 4.3 billion USD. This is an increase of 21% compared to the same period last year. It is also an important signal because shrimp consistently accounts for a large proportion of the total value of seafood exports and is directly affected by price fluctuations, demand, and trade barriers.
There is a clear recovery in global demand for shrimp products, particularly processed items and premium segments. While other industries are facing difficulties, the shrimp industry has rapidly adapted to market fluctuations, trade policies, and changing consumer trends.
In the export structure, white-leg shrimp continues to hold the largest share with 2.8 billion USD, equivalent to nearly 65% of the total value. Black tiger shrimp reached 426 million USD, an increase of 4%. Notably, the “other shrimp” group, primarily lobsters, saw a 74% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This breakthrough contributes to raising the average export value and reflects the trend of changing toward high value-added segments.
Shrimp exports for the whole year of 2025 are likely to reach 4.6 billion USD, the highest level ever.
China and Hong Kong were the largest export markets, with a turnover of 1.2 billion USD, up 59% year-on-year and accounting for over 28% of total export value. High demand for live, fresh shrimp and premium products continues to be a major driver.
Competition in the Chinese and Hong Kong markets is increasing. Ecuador and India hold an advantage in the low-cost segment, while Thailand and Vietnam compete directly in the premium and processing segments. China’s traceability requirements, border control, and changes in customs policies are posing significant challenges for businesses.
The CPTPP bloc had a positive growth, with a turnover of 1.2 billion USD in the first 11 months of 2025, an increase of 32% compared to the same period last year. Japan maintained its key role with 535 million USD, up 13%. Australia, the UK, and Canada also recorded steady growth.
Shrimp exports to the US were 754 million USD, an increase of 7% compared to the same period last year. Export activities in the second half of the year were more “defensive” as businesses rushed to deliver early before the new tax rates came into effect.
The EU market saw significant recovery, with a turnover of 540 million USD, a 21% increase compared to the same period last year. Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands had the strongest growth.
The outlook for 2026 is more cautious due to tariff pressures from the US, competition in China, and high domestic production costs. However, if Vietnam’s shrimp industry continues to expand into the CPTPP, EU, and Middle East and promotes deep-processed products, it has the opportunity to maintain stable growth in the medium and long term.