Vietnam's shrimp exports to EU rebound in Q1 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, Vietnam's shrimp exports to the European Union reached over US$107 million, marking a 33 per cent year-on-year increase and signalling what the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) said is, "a strong start to the year."

VASEP said the growth was driven by the recovery of demand in Europe, the proactive adaptation of Vietnamese exporters in diversifying their product portfolios, and the effective utilisation of preferential tariffs under the EU-Vietnam free trade agreement.

A key market with segmented demand and positive growth momentum

VASEP regards the EU as not only a high-potential destination but also home to a diverse consumer ecosystem, ranging from mass-market to premium segments.

The association said European consumers generally favour seafood, especially shrimp, due to its high nutritional value and associated health benefits. In particular, ready-to-eat, convenient, and reasonably priced products have been gaining popularity.

The average export price of whiteleg shrimp to the EU remained stable at US$7.60/kg, while black tiger shrimp experienced a modest price increase, reaching US$10.90/kg in March, indicating rising demand and growth potential in the premium segment.

Processed shrimp products (boiled, steamed, or supermarket-packaged) now account for approximately 42 to 45 per cent of total export volume, whereas raw shrimp (live, fresh, or frozen) comprises 55 to 58 per cent. VASEP said this distribution reflects a clear shift in consumption trends towards higher value-added offerings.

Whiteleg shrimp remains the dominant product group

Whiteleg shrimp continues to serve as the primary export category, generating US$87 million in revenue – equivalent to 81 per cent of total shrimp exports to the EU – up 31 per cent year-on-year.

Of this amount, processed products under HS code 16 accounted for US$45 million, while live/fresh/frozen shrimp under HS code 03 reached US$42 million.

Black tiger shrimp, the second-largest product group, achieved nearly US$10 million in export value, up 14 per cent. Notably, Vietnam is currently the second-largest supplier of black tiger shrimp to the EU – a strategic advantage that VASEP asserts should be fully leveraged.

The so-called “other shrimp” category also surged, generating US$10 million in revenue – a sharp 79 per cent increase. This includes a 77 per cent rise in processed products and an impressive 136 per cent jump in live/fresh/frozen items.

VASEP said these figures underscore the EU’s growing appreciation for product diversity and innovation.