According to the General Department of Customs, from the beginning of the year to August 15, Vietnam’s shrimp exports to China (including Hong Kong) reached nearly USD 767 million, up 76 per cent on-year and accounting for almost 29 per cent of the country’s total shrimp export turnover.
In the first half of August alone, Vietnam earned USD 57 million from shrimp exports to China, accounting for 30 per cent of the nation’s total shrimp export value.
Live, fresh, and frozen items posted triple-digit growth, highlighting strong consumer demand for premium products, such as live lobsters. In addition, black tiger shrimp exports to China recorded double-digit growth, while white leg shrimp saw a decline.
Chinese customs data showed that in the first seven months of 2025, China’s shrimp imports reached 519,000 tonnes, down 2 per cent year-on-year. However, import value rose 7 per cent to USD 2.73 billion, as the average price increased 9 per cent to USD 5.25 per kilo.
Ecuador remained dominant with a 75 per cent share, supported by ample supply, competitive prices, and strong demand for frozen head-on shrimp.
India’s exports declined to 76,000 tonnes, with its market share slipping due to quality issues, rising costs, and a dispersed supply chain.
Vietnam, meanwhile, gained ground in the premium segment, with exports to China experiencing a surge.
According to VASEP, Vietnam’s shrimp exports to China are expected to continue growing in the short term, particularly during major holidays such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, New Year, and Lunar New Year, when demand for gifts and seafood consumption surges. Premium products, such as live lobster, large black tiger shrimp, and value-added whiteleg shrimp, will play a leading role.
But, in the medium term, rising domestic producers in China and continued competition from Ecuador and India will put pressure on imports. Vietnamese enterprises are therefore advised to stay focused on quality, diversify their products, and target premium market segments.
