Vietnam seafood sector targets $12 billion in 2026 exports

Vietnam's seafood industry is aiming to reach or exceed an annual export target of $12 billion by the end of 2026. To meet the broader $74 billion goal for the country's agricultural, forestry, and fishery sectors, seafood exports must maintain a monthly value of approximately $1 billion during the final months of the year.

Shrimp remains the primary driver of this growth. According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), shrimp exports reached $3.29 billion in the first eight months of 2026, representing a 12.3% year-on-year increase and roughly 41% of total seafood export revenue. China has been a major growth driver, with imports rising 37.6% to $1.13 billion.

Despite opportunities driven by festive season demand and inventory restocking in Asia, the sector faces significant challenges in the United States. Vietnamese shrimp exports to the U.S. have declined due to a 12.5% Section 301 tariff, which places exporters at a price disadvantage compared to competitors facing 10% tariffs. Additionally, upcoming anti-dumping duty review results are expected to impact fourth-quarter orders.