Vietnam pangasius exports jump 101% as Brazil stays top market

Vietnam’s pangasius (cá rô phi) exports surged in the first five months of 2026, reaching $62 million—a 101% increase over the same period in 2025. Brazil remained the largest buyer, accounting for $34 million (more than half of total exports), while the United States, the second‑largest market, saw a 23% decline to $14 million.

Exports to Canada and Australia grew sharply, up 236% and 123% respectively, and the Dominican Republic recorded a 147% rise. In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s monthly shipments fell 74% in May, but cumulative exports to the region grew 87% year‑to‑date. The sector faces challenges from rising protectionist measures in Brazil and a weakening U.S. market, prompting Vietnamese exporters to diversify into new markets such as Canada, Australia, the Middle East and the EU.