According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, Chinese demand for Vietnamese lobster strengthened sharply from the beginning of the year.
Imports peaked in February at around USD 154 million, more than 150 per cent higher than the same month in 2025. Monthly import values then remained stable at between USD 78 million and USD 87 million. In May alone, imports reached USD 78.4 million, an increase of more than 21 per cent, indicating that demand remained resilient after the peak consumption season.
VASEP said China continued to be the world's largest market for Vietnamese lobster because of its steady demand for live seafood, particularly premium products supplied to restaurants, banquets and the gift market.
Vietnamese lobster also enjoys several competitive advantages in China. The close geographical proximity shortens transport times and helps preserve the quality of live shipments, while exporters can deliver products by both road and air.
In particular, small and medium sized green lobster varieties are competitively priced and well suited to Chinese consumer preferences.
Changing global supply dynamics have also created new opportunities for Vietnamese exporters.
Since 2025, traditional suppliers including Canada, the United States and Australia have faced challenges from tariffs, trade disruptions and slower production recovery, creating additional room for Vietnamese lobster to expand its market share in China.
Industry analysts expect Vietnam's lobster exports to continue growing in the second half of the year if Chinese consumer demand remains stable and exporters can maintain a reliable supply of high quality products.
