China is a large market for Vietnam's lobsters.
Vietnam’s shrimp industry is showing a strong rebound after a period of slowdown. Customs data shows shipments totalled USD 3.9 billion in the first ten months, up 22 per cent year-on-year.
China retained its position as Vietnam’s biggest buyer, importing more than USD 1.1 billion worth of shrimp, accounting for 28.2 per cent of total export value, an increase of 64 per cent compared with the same period last year.
Beyond China, Vietnamese shrimp exports recorded positive growth across several major markets. Exports to CPTPP countries exceeded USD 1 billion in the ten-month period, up 33 per cent, supported by stable demand in Japan, Canada and Australia.
In the United States, once Vietnam’s largest shrimp destination, shipments reached USD 702 million over ten months, an increase of 9 per cent. Demand remains solid, although Vietnamese producers continue to face competition from Ecuador and India.
Exports to the European Union rose to USD 487 million, up 20 per cent year-on-year.
Analysts expect Chinese imports to rise slightly in the fourth quarter, driven by demand for the festive season and the 2026 Lunar New Year. Premium products such as live shrimp, lobster and large black tiger shrimp are likely to continue steering growth.
The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers said China will remain a key growth driver this year. However, it warned that opportunities come with challenges, noting China’s fast-changing market, frequent adjustments to import regulations and increasingly fierce competition.
To sustain momentum and strengthen long-term development, the association said Vietnamese shrimp businesses need to reposition themselves with a more professional, value-added strategy while keeping close track of new regulatory requirements to make the most of emerging opportunities.
