Hanoi, December 24, 2024 – The Europe Today: Vietnam’s seafood export industry achieved remarkable success in 2024, surpassing its target of US$10 billion despite facing significant challenges in logistics, material shortages, and fluctuating markets. This was announced by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).
Key product groups experienced impressive growth, with shrimp exports reaching $4 billion (up 16.7%), tra fish at $2 billion (up 8.9%), and tuna at $1 billion (up 18%).
Nguyễn Thị Thu Sắc, chairwoman of VASEP, stated that the industry had set a $10 billion target for 2024 amidst inflation control efforts in major global markets. However, geopolitical tensions such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict and the Middle East crisis impacted trade costs and demand.
“Despite these challenges, Vietnam’s fishery industry has proven its resilience, maintaining its position as the world’s third-largest seafood exporter after China and Norway,” she said. She also expressed optimism about stronger growth in 2025 and beyond.
Phùng Đức Tiến, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, applauded the contributions of businesses and farmers, noting that the sector’s success highlighted Vietnam’s growing reputation in global seafood markets.
For 2025, the industry faces challenges such as addressing the European Commission’s “yellow card” for illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as climate change and environmental barriers.
Tiến emphasized that with better material sourcing, expanded export markets, and adherence to food safety and sustainable practices, Vietnam’s seafood industry could exceed $11 billion in exports, further solidifying its global standing.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has urged the sector to embrace hi-tech and green production, while also targeting new markets like Halal and Africa to drive future growth.
