Vietnam’s shrimp export outlook following new U.S. tariff policies

Vietnam’s shrimp export industry demonstrates remarkable resilience as new U.S. tariff policies reshape global seafood trade in 2025. With $756 million in exports to the United States alone, Vietnam continues to strengthen its position as a leading shrimp supplier despite evolving trade dynamics.

Changes in the U.S. seafood market in 2025

The U.S. seafood market is expected to experience shifts following the implementation of new trade policies. According to reports referenced by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the tariff adjustments under the new U.S. administration are aimed at promoting domestic seafood production. This may position seafood as a premium product, leading to increased at-home consumption, particularly benefiting shrimp and salmon sales.

Vietnam’s shrimp industry remains resilient

On February 1, 2025, the U.S. imposed significant tariffs on its three largest trading partners—Canada, China, and Mexico. While the seafood sector has seen fluctuations due to these policies, Vietnamese exporters view the situation as an opportunity rather than a challenge.

Industry experts note that despite potential market disruptions, Vietnamese seafood, particularly shrimp, has an established presence in the U.S. market. Shrimp exports from Vietnam to the U.S. are not directly affected by new tariff measures but continue to be subject to existing anti-dumping duties.

Export orders and market prospects

Vietnamese shrimp exporters have already secured new contracts for 2025, with frozen shrimp shipments scheduled for delivery to both the U.S. and European markets. The higher U.S. tariffs on imported fish products are expected to encourage domestic aquaculture, benefiting premium seafood categories such as lobster and crab. However, Vietnamese shrimp, which has gained a strong reputation among U.S. consumers, is anticipated to maintain stable demand.

Consumer trends favor processed seafood

Market research from Circana indicates that 88% of U.S. meals in October 2024 were consumed at home. This trend is projected to continue, fueling demand for convenient and easy-to-prepare seafood products.

Vietnam’s shrimp industry benefits from its advanced processing capabilities, producing a variety of value-added shrimp products such as:

• Breaded shrimp
• Shrimp tempura
• Butterfly-cut shrimp
• Skewered shrimp
• Seasoned shrimp
• Dumplings with shrimp fillings

Compared to Ecuador and India, which have invested in high-capacity processing lines, Vietnam is recognized for its diverse range of processed shrimp products. This competitive advantage strengthens its market position, even as global competitors expand their processing operations.

Vietnam’s shrimp export performance

Key Export Statistics 2024

In 2024, Vietnam’s shrimp exports to the U.S. reached $756 million, marking an 11% increase from 2023. White-leg shrimp accounted for the majority (84.3%) of exports, followed by black tiger shrimp (9.3%), with the remainder consisting of other shrimp varieties.

Vietnam’s shrimp industry exported to 107 global markets in 2024. The five key markets—China & Hong Kong, the U.S., Japan, the European Union, and South Korea—comprised 76% of total shrimp exports.

Conclusion

The new U.S. tariff policies are reshaping global seafood trade, but Vietnamese shrimp exports are well-positioned to navigate these changes. With a strong foothold in the U.S. market, advanced processing capabilities, and growing demand for convenient seafood options, Vietnam’s shrimp industry remains competitive. Continued market diversification and investment in value-added products will be key strategies for sustaining growth in the evolving global trade landscape.

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