Illustrative image
According to Vietnam Customs data, in the first 8 months of 2025, pangasius exports (including tilapia) reached over $63 million, a 174% increase compared to the same period last year. This figure surpasses Vietnam’s pangasius export value over the past five years, since 2020.
In terms of market, the United States is the largest importer of Vietnamese pangasius, accounting for 62% of the total export value.
During the same period, tilapia exports reached $11 million, a 1% decrease compared to 2024. Notably, exports to the U.S. accounted for 25% of this total. Pangasius exports reached $52 million, a remarkable 359% increase year-over-year, with the U.S. market alone contributing 70% of this value.
According to the International Trade Centre (ITC), the U.S. is the largest consumer of pangasius, with China being the primary global supplier. As of July 2025, pangasius is the most popular whitefish in the U.S., surpassing cod and catfish. Frozen pangasius fillets (HS code 030461) are the most consumed product by American consumers.
In the first 7 months of 2025, the U.S. imported over $1.1 billion worth of whitefish globally, an 8% increase year-over-year. Specifically, frozen pangasius fillets (HS code 030461) accounted for $262 million, a 19% rise compared to 2024, representing 23% of total whitefish imports. Vietnam is the second-largest supplier of HS code 030461 products to the U.S., after China, highlighting significant growth potential for pangasius exports.
While Vietnam may struggle to compete directly with major players like China, Indonesia, Egypt, and Brazil as a primary global pangasius supplier, many Vietnamese companies are now farming and exporting pangasius alongside tra fish, another popular whitefish.
According to VASEP, the top 5 pangasius exporters in the first 8 months of 2025 are: Indian Ocean Co., Ltd., V Investment and Finance Co., Ltd., Nam Viet Corporation, Kim Phat Seafood Import-Export Co., Ltd., and NVD Seafood Co., Ltd.
The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) reports that the global pangasius market reached $10.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $14.5 billion by 2033, at a 3.52% annual growth rate. Global pangasius production was 7 million tons in 2024 and is expected to rise to 7.3 million tons in 2025. VASEP estimates global pangasius demand will grow by 13% annually, potentially reaching $20 billion by 2030. Notably, the U.S. alone demands 200,000 tons of pangasius imports annually, presenting a significant opportunity for exporters like Vietnam.
Currently, Vietnam ranks fifth in Asia for pangasius production, following China, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.
Navigating U.S. Tax Challenges: A Critical Test for Businesses
The U.S.’s 20% retaliatory tax on imports from Vietnam presents a significant challenge, yet it also serves as a critical test for businesses to restructure their market strategies and enhance competitiveness. With thorough preparation and support from local authorities, companies can not only retain their market share but also explore opportunities for expansion.
Vietnam’s Billion-Dollar Specialty Dominates Global Markets: Surging to $1.4 Billion in Revenue, Worldwide Competition Fails as Vietnam Secures the Top Spot
By the end of the first eight months, this product has generated over $1.4 billion in revenue.
U.S. Tax Challenges: A Critical Litmus Test for Businesses
The 20% reciprocal tax imposed by the U.S. on imports from Vietnam presents a significant challenge, yet it also serves as a critical test for businesses to restructure their market strategies and enhance competitiveness. With thorough preparation and support from local authorities, companies can not only retain their market share but also explore opportunities for expansion.
Vietnam’s Nearly $1 Billion Export Commodity Facing Challenges in Over 110 Countries: What Directive Has the Prime Minister Issued?
This is the product that once achieved a billion-dollar export turnover for Vietnam.
Profits Surge for Vinh Hoan Corporation Despite US Tariff Concerns
The Vinh Hoan Corporation (HOSE: VHC) reported a net profit of nearly VND 500 billion in the second quarter of 2025, a 56% increase compared to the same period last year, despite earlier warnings that countervailing duties imposed by the US could impact profits.
