Illustrative Image
According to data from the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), tuna exports in August 2025 generated $91 million, a 1.4% increase compared to the same period last year. This marks a positive turnaround after several months of decline since the beginning of the year. Cumulatively, over the first eight months, the tuna industry earned $633 million, a 2.3% decrease compared to the same period in 2024.
In terms of markets, the United States remains the largest importer of Vietnamese tuna. Although exports to the U.S. in August still declined, the rate of decrease slowed, reaching $29 million, a nearly 21% drop compared to the same period last year. By the end of eight months, exports to the U.S. totaled $234 million, a slight 4% decrease year-on-year. Vietnam’s tuna industry faces significant pressure due to new tax policies, causing a slowdown in business orders. Compared to competitors like Ecuador (15% tax), Indonesia, and the Philippines (19%), Vietnamese tuna is losing its edge with a corresponding tax rate of 20%.
The European Union (EU) ranks second, with tuna exports continuing to grow in August, up 6% year-on-year to $17 million. Among EU countries, the Netherlands and Italy stood out with growth rates of 40% and 43%, respectively. Exports to Germany also increased by 26% during the same period.
In the CPTPP member countries, exports to key markets are showing signs of recovery, notably in Chile. Tuna exports to Japan surged unexpectedly in August, rising by 88%. Similarly, Canada maintained strong growth momentum.
Beyond traditional markets, emerging markets such as Russia (+17.8%), the Philippines (+72.4%), and particularly Thailand (+248%), have shown positive signals, making Thailand a noteworthy destination.
Vietnam is currently among the top five tuna-exporting countries globally in terms of export value. Vietnamese tuna products are exported to over 100 markets worldwide. The U.S., EU, Middle East, and CPTPP countries are the top four consumers, accounting for 82-86% of Vietnam’s total tuna export revenue.
According to VASEP, tuna in Vietnamese waters is primarily found in the central coastal areas and the South China Sea. Vietnam’s tuna reserves are estimated at over 600,000 tons, with yellowfin tuna being the main species, accounting for more than 50% of the total pelagic fish resources.
Tuna exports are expected to recover due to increased year-end demand. However, the industry faces challenges from fluctuating raw material prices, logistics costs, and competition from major producing nations. Additionally, the recent decision by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to deny equivalency recognition for 12 Vietnamese fisheries, including tuna, under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), is likely to impact tuna exports to the U.S., Vietnam’s largest market.
From a Finnish Launchpad: Vietnamese Exports Aim High and Head North
“Vietnam has emerged as the world’s fifth-largest exporter of this particular commodity in terms of revenue. With a steady growth in exports, the country has firmly established itself as a key player in the global market for this product.”
A Vietnamese Product Gaining Traction in Europe: Reaping Over Half a Billion USD, Our Country Ranks Among the Top 5 Global Leaders
Vietnam has raked in a whopping $542 million in revenue from exports of this particular commodity since the beginning of the year.
