Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam's tilapia export revenue continued to post strong growth in May, reaching 14 million USD, up nearly 20% year-on-year, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).
The figure in the first five months of 2026 hit 62 million USD, more than doubling that in the same period last year, reflecting a strong recovery in international demand for Vietnamese tilapia.
Brazil remained the largest importer, with shipments worth 8 million USD in May. During the January-May period, exports to the South American market brought home at 34 million USD, accounting for more than half of Vietnam's total tilapia export value.
In contrast, exports to the US, the second-largest market, continued to decline. Shipments fell 53% year-on-year to 4 million USD in May, while five-month exports dropped 23% to 14 million USD amid weaker seafood demand and intensifying competition from other suppliers.
Canada and Australia recorded the highest growth during the five-month period, with exports surging 236% and 123%, respectively, highlighting their potential as emerging markets despite their relatively modest share.
VASEP noted that although export growth remains robust, the sector faces mounting challenges. Brazil is tightening protective measures on imported products, while the US market continues to weaken.
The association said exporters should diversify their markets by expanding sales to destinations such as Canada, Australia, the Middle East and the European Union, while investing in value-added products and improving competitiveness to sustain long-term growth./.
